Power Steering Stuck

[eryp]

1996 Wellcraft Excel, 5.0FL Volvo Penta, Cobra SX-C Outdrive

This boat has been in storage for 2 years. With or without the engine running it is very difficult to turn the steering wheel.

I loosened the nut on the cable to the steering actuator and managed to pull the cable partway out of the actuator. It was difficult to pull out.

I attempted to turn the steering wheel and it was very stiff. I could move it but it took a good amount of force. I'm guessing that the cable is damaged?

Any ideas?

Thanks in advance,

Eric

 

[littlebookworm]

Re: Power Steering Stuck

Disconnect the cable at the steering box under the dashboard. Then try to turn the wheel. If it turns freely, your cable is shot and needs replacement. If it binds, your cable and your steering box are shot. A project boat I refurbished about ten years ago needed both the box and the cable. I bought a complete new unit - they didn't make the cable any more. Everything fit together perfectly and worked great after that. Good luck. Hy

 

[Don S]

Re: Power Steering Stuck

Sounds like you have corrosion in the aluminum tube through the power steering unit, and a bad steering cable. Clean the tube in the PS unit and grease the new cable and you should be good to go.
Many times, it's impossible to get just the cable. If you can't find a cable number on your old cable, you will need the complete helm steering kit.

 

[eryp]

Re: Power Steering Stuck

Thanks for the replies and troubleshooting tips. I am amazed at what an active forum this is!

After removing the cable from the steering cylinder assembly the steering wheel is still hard to turn. It has gotten easier as I have operated it a bit more. I've got the whole cable assembly soaking in penetrating oil right now. I have done this before on a non powered steering cable and it worked great. Tomorrow will tell......

Thanks again,

Eric