Hard Steering....Help.

[steve forsythe]

I own a 23' cc with a 200 merc. When accelerating slowly the steering is very smooth turning both ways. But when up on plane...20knts plus, it is very hard to turn to the right (i think). Havent been on the boat that long but i think it is to the right. When i say hard to turn it is stiff and takes a lot of effort to turn the motor. But turning to the opposite side is smooth and a breeze. We adjusted the engine on the bracket and this helped but not much. I have been told this is a torque issue?? Turning the motor the opposite way the prop spins is always hard. I dont believe this because no other boat i have ever had was this hard. I replaced the helm because the bearings were worn and this helped but also very little. Do i need lube, new hydrolics (spelling?) Any suggestions app.

 

[Fouled Plug]

Re: Hard Steering....Help.

You may want to check the condition and position of the small zinc "fin" on the bottom of the cavitation plate. It can be adjusted to compensate for the torque you are wrestling with.

 

[DJ]

Re: Hard Steering....Help.

I second "Fouled Plug's" opinion. The trim tab can be moved to help. This is the tab sticking down just above and behind the prop. You will not eliminate torque steer, yet you can decrease it.<br /><br />If you want truly torque steer free steering, you'll have to go to a hydraulic or no feedback steering system.