Mercury thunderbolt 50hp steering problem

[whmstang99]

I have a 17ft MFG that I restored, it has a 50hp Merc. Thunderbolt, serial 6224280. Problem, I cannot get it to turn hard to Port. The piston is fine, moves well. The engine turns fine, take good care of my boat. The problem is that the piston retracts in all the way, and there is no were else for it to go. When it is in all the way, the engine is barley turned. I was thinking if it is possible to put on a longer steering lingage, from the piston to the motor, any suggestions.

 

[corm]

Re: Mercury thunderbolt 50hp steering problem

Hi,

It depends on what type of steering cable mount you have. Is it a splashwell , transom , under the stern clamps , or through the tilt tube cable mount?
Post picture if you can.

 

[whmstang99]

Re: Mercury thunderbolt 50hp steering problem

through the tilt tube cable mount

 

[corm]

Re: Mercury thunderbolt 50hp steering problem

Hi,

Well if your link rod is not adjustable I would take the cable nut off the tilt tube and turn the wheel all the way to port. It maybe hydro locking from grease.
If you have an adjustable link arm has the length been changed?

 

[whmstang99]

Re: Mercury thunderbolt 50hp steering problem

I don't have an adjustable arm, can I purchase one. The piston on the cable moves freely that is not the problem. When I bought this boat it never turned hard port, so I finally realized why.

 

[corm]

Re: Mercury thunderbolt 50hp steering problem

Hi,

I don't know if they still sell adj link arms. Teleflex and T&R marine used to have them.
I would count the turns lock to lock on the wheel with the engine disconnected.
Then turn the wheel to the center. Check to see if the engine will line up with the link arm If it lines up with the engine going straight then I would check the steering head or rack to see if it was assembled right. If the engine is not centered then your link arm is the wrong length or has the wrong bend in it.