Rear steering bar or front factory pulleys?

[Well Then]

Evinrude/Johnson made steering adapters which attach to the front handle area of their motors -- basically a block with a pulley on each side for the cables. Many small skimmer boats and class racing outboard hydros instead mount a bar on the back of the motor, extending maybe 16 inches on each side. What is the benefit of one system over the other ? I can see that the wide steering bar would involve fewer pulleys and so have quicker response, but require more effort. The factory parts might require more turns at the steering wheel, but less effort to turn. Thoughts? Thanks.

 

[Willyclay]

You have described the pro's and con's of each version very well. Simple is always better in my old geezer brain BUT a "racer-style bar" on a pleasure boat motor may be an obstruction at the very least or a safety issue in the worst case. I have experience with both as well as the modern mechanical push/pull cable systems. A lot depends on exactly what you are trying to accomplish and what is your primary use of the boat/motor in question. Be safe!

 

[Well Then]

Thanks. Think "MiniMax" or "MiniMost" or something like "Wizbang 13." I already have the front pulley parts, but then I see the Dillon Racing pages & it made me reconsider. I wonder if the bars on the little Glen-L or Sorensen boats were just for saving money on buying the factory parts. I grew up with the front pulleys -- the only thing used on a runabout them.

 

[Willyclay]

I used a bar on a 1947 Wizard (Mercury) WD-4S because it was the most convenient method of attaching the steering cables for my PM MiniMax. If you plan on using a JohnnyRude that has the front carrying handle with provisions for the "front pulley parts" you already have, seems like that is the best option. Be careful how quick you make the steering on that style hull because I know first-hand how sensitive they are to flipping during a high-speed turn. Good luck!

 

[Well Then]

Excellent. Thanks. I appreciate your thoughts.