Is steering repairs -a do it yourself?

[jack bowman]

I have an older 14 ft alum fishing boat and the steering cable is badly frayed and needs replacement<br /><br />Is this a do it yourself project. If so where can I find parts in Canada ??

 

[Jack Shellac]

Re: Is steering repairs -a do it yourself?

It's definitely a do-it-yourself with the new cable systems that are easy to install. I personally like the Teleflex No Feedback system which is reasonably priced and works very well. You can buy them at any marine parts dealer.

 

[Link]

Re: Is steering repairs -a do it yourself?

beats workin :<br />Ditto's on Jack Shellac's post. I'm from just down under you in North America also bud, and have been to several marine dealers in the Vancover area. <br />Grab a friend and with coffee/soda breaks you should be done in a couple hours.. then sneak in some worms and some poles and explaine to ur other 1/2 that you need to water test it and make adjustments... like they won't know what ur up too <br /><br />Luck on it <br />Link<br />PS Went up last year to visit some friends in Surrey and stole some of your fishies... going to do the same again this year

 

[sandmanmike1]

Re: Is steering repairs -a do it yourself?

Do you have the old rope system that is wound around a small drum attached to the steering wheel. I do and would like to change it. Been told it is unsafe. Is the a way to changeover for less than a hundred dollars. I have a old starcraft falcon aluminum boat not sure of year

 

[Link]

Re: Is steering repairs -a do it yourself?

sandmanmike1:<br />Most likely not for under a hundred bucks and it even might be a bit more depending on how your motor is set up. I know that dealers can not sell or re-sell a trade in boat here in the state of Washington with a 50 HP or above with the old cable, pully and spring system. Now on the bright side:<br />Unsafe: Well yes by todays standards and the new steering systems yes! But I grew up with them on 80 HP and above and they worked great.. but if the cable had broke at WOT I most likely wouldnt be typing this Take a look at any rag that sells the new systems (Cabelas, Overtons etc) and they will show you how to measure for a new steering system... let me know the length you need and I might even have one. If I do you just pay shipping.. then mabe a converstion for your motor.. Also after learning the correct length you could contact marine dealers in your area who have used parts..to keep the cost down.. a lot of times like me a boater will add a extention bracket to put the outboard farther back and the dealer will just keep the older steering cable around. Just a thought..<br />linkjackman1@msn.com<br /><br />Luck to you<br />Link

 

[Lark40]

Re: Is steering repairs -a do it yourself?

A cable/pulley system is fine for a 14' boat with an engine under 50 hp. I have one on my 1959 runabout.<br /><br />You can buy plastic sheathed stranded metal cable at any hardware store. Clothesline is definitely obselete.<br /><br />If a Teleflex system will fit your boat (won't fit mine due to the tail fins), then that is an easy upgrade, as the other posters have stated.