Power Steering Stiff

[63split63]

Hi , I posted this question earlyer this week and I need to clarify my question. 1997 Fourwinns,18' Volvo Penta 5.7L GL. I have the engine out for a rebuild and noticed that the steering will not move. If I try any harder I think I will break something. This boat has sat for a year and I bought it not running so I have no history or expierence with sterndrives. It has a cable that runs from the steering wheel to a power slave in the stern. Should I be able to move the wheel and drive with the power steering pump disconected. If there is a problem I would like to repair it now with the engine out of the way . Thanks for the help, This is a great forum.<br />Bill

 

[Don S]

Re: Power Steering Stiff

There are several possibilities.<br />1. The cable itself is froze up. That would require a new steering cable<br />2. The stainless steel cable end is corroded and froze into the aluminum tube going thru the power steering unit (Most Probable Cause)<br />3. Something in the drive pivots are frozen.<br /><br />Start by disconnecting the steering cable from the PS unit and see if the wheel will turn.<br />Remove the pin from the cable to the steering arm and see if the drive will actually move, and see if you can pull the cable out of the PS cylinder.

 

[63split63]

Re: Power Steering Stiff

Thanks Don, I will try to disconnect the cable and see what happens.

 

[63split63]

Re: Power Steering Stiff

Thanks Don You were correct, the stainless steel cable is corroded and frozen to the aluminum tube that goes through the power steering unit. <br /> Now what is the best way to free this up ?<br />Thanks Again in Advance

 

[Don S]

Re: Power Steering Stiff

Heat, hopefully enough to release the corrosion enough to pull the cable out of the tube without damageing the unit.<br />Clean the tube and cable and lube with a light grease.

 

[63split63]

Re: Power Steering Stiff

Thanks Again Don !