OMC/Cobra Steering

[loopieQ]

I've got a 91 Caravelle ski boat with a 120 hp OMC/Cobra I/O. The problem is that the steering is so tight, you can hardly make a turn - especially at slow speeds. Any thoughts?

 

[Tracy Coleman]

Re: OMC/Cobra Steering

lily<br />At over 10 years old, probably the steering cable has gotten rusty inside, is binding and needs to be replaced. Everything except the steering wheel can be replaced as a kit (Teleflex) for about $150-parts. Usually as cheap as just a cable replacement. Ask your dealer for an estimate for labor. This is the steering and life and limb is at stake, not a good place for first time projects. To be determined is 1)is it a rack or a rotary?, 2)what is the lenght of the current cable?-12', 13',14... and is it correct or does it need to be changed for better service? I guess that your engine does not have power steering, somebody saved about $300 when they bought the boat. My view.<br />Backfire

 

[loopieQ]

Re: OMC/Cobra Steering

thanks for the info. the steering hasn't been greased/lubed since i got it 2 yrs ago. so i think we'll try that first. hopefully we won't have to replace the cables, but who knows. i'm up in fayetteville. was just down on lake ouachita over memorial weekend. small world...