steering cable replacement

[bkearse]

Hello, I have a 91 Bayliner 18ft. Capri. I'm trying to change the steering cable. The current system is a rack & pinion, and I do have a steering tube. I can't seem to pull the assembly out of the tube (not enough pulling space). Will I have to remove outboard to get rod out of shaft? I have already removed all wires and cables running through hole with sreering cable. Any suggestions would be apreciated. Thanks

 

[MIKE F]

Re: steering cable replacement

Assuming your steering wheel is turned as far as you can to port (to retract the cable at the motor) if that's already been done, I don't see how you can remove the cable, without removing the engine. Actually it might be possible to break the old cable near the engine and try to install the new one at the engine and work the new cable forward from there.

 

[Jack Shellac]

Re: steering cable replacement

Bad news, but Mike F is right. Just installed a new Teleflex and right at the end, the instructions said "motor may have to be removed to insert". You have nothing to lose on the old one, so cut it out and try his method.

 

[bkearse]

Re: steering cable replacement

Thanks guys, looks like I'll be cutting out the old cable and removing the motor to install the new one. I just dont want to risk bending the new steering rod. I guess its just a bad design. This Bayliner is my first boat. It definitely taught me a lot! I'll be a regular boat mechanic in no time

 

[Valv]

Re: steering cable replacement

Puddle Jumper, it's not just your boat, many are same way if splashwell (transom) area is too narrow. I usually cut old cable (watch out, they are tough...!!) and insert new one, but many times I had to just remove motor bolts, lift it slightly and shift it all the way left to insert new rod, then feed cable though transom opening.