power steering problem

[pcrg28328]

I have a 20' stingray cc with 4.3 merc and alpha 1 gen 2 outdrive. While steering I have to constantly pull my steering wheel to the right just to keep straight. It feels like it is slipping inside about 1 inch at a time. Every minute or so I have to reach the the left of the steering wheel and start pulling to the right again steadily slipping to the right. If I let the boat go on its own it will drive in a leftward direction. Any ideas?

 

[Bondo]

Re: power steering problem

Ayuh,.... Adjust the torque tab, mounted in the cav-plate, above the prop,....

If the cable 'n helm are actually slippin',... Replace 'em Both, as a kit...

 

[achris]

Re: power steering problem

Sorry Bill, no trim tab on those drives...

OP. What steering system do you have? Hydraulic or cable?

 

[pcrg28328]

Re: power steering problem

Sorry Bill, no trim tab on those drives...

OP. What steering system do you have? Hydraulic or cable?

I will assume it is hydraulic since it runs off of a power steering pump and the steering wheel never finds a stopping point. It will turn forever. I se what could be a cable and is very stiff. It runs from the helm to the steering.
Under Helm.


At steering.

 

[achris]

Re: power steering problem

Nope, that's a rotary cable steering system. If it never finds a stopping point, the helm unit is bad, likely a stripped tooth...

 

[pcrg28328]

Re: power steering problem

Thanks. Are they generic or vessel specific? How much should they cost?

 

[achris]

Re: power steering problem

Generic... and you'll need to get the cable out and read the length written on it... The cable and helm are usually sold together...

Cost? a shed load in Australia... Much cheaper in your country (I assume you're in USA)...

 

[pcrg28328]

Re: power steering problem

Thanks alot. I found em on ebay for 115 usd. just gotta check the length.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/BOAT-STEERI...ar&hash=item43a929f867&vxp=mtr#ht_1915wt_1136