Small Boat Steering Systems 101

[lakelover]

Re: Small Boat Steering Systems 101

I just tossed this thing on there two weeks ago, I don't know how it got so well stuck already.

I had to remove mine for centering after putting it on a couple weeks ago, not super tight, and it was no easy task. I did finally get it unstuck and put marine grease on the shaft when I put it back on. I hope that investment pays off someday. They can be frustrating.

 

[l008com]

Re: Small Boat Steering Systems 101

That's a pretty good idea. The nut is a huge locking nut anyway, and plus how hard are you going to pull on the wheel. So yeah I may grease my new one up before I put it on too.

 

[l008com]

Re: Small Boat Steering Systems 101

Also, and important comment.
I was out in some relatively rough seas today (rough for a 15-footer) and I sure was glad I had the no-feedback helm. I would let go of the wheel to rub water out of my eyes, or to hold on to something more solid than the wheel. And the boat stayed nice and true. It would have been much more difficult with a regular helm. And the play, well it's a little annoying but since the wheel's so easy to turn, it's not really a big deal.

 

[lakelover]

Re: Small Boat Steering Systems 101

Also, and important comment.
the wheel's so easy to turn, it's not really a big deal.

Agreed, my new steering feels just like power steering in a car.

 

[MichaelP]

Re: Small Boat Steering Systems 101

This works like a charm.
1) loosen nut
2) pull up on wheel with 1 hand
3) hit nut with hammer while pulling up

It might help to nail it with WD or PB a day or 2 first.

 

[l008com]

Re: Small Boat Steering Systems 101

Yeah I'm kind of afraid to do that, my dash is pretty flexy, and I don't want to end up smashing it. I'm going to try to find a gear puller first, that should work.

 

[l008com]

Re: Small Boat Steering Systems 101

Follow-up: So autozone does this free tool borrowing thing. So I got one of those and pulled the wheel right off.