Steering Cable Stuck in Tube

[rlambert]

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I believe my steering cable is getting stuck in my guide tube on my mercruiser alpha I stern drive (1986 Sea Ray Seville 140). What is the best way to get it out? Anything I should be careful of? Can't turn the wheel at all right now. Used it two weeks ago and it was hard to turn at first and then loosened up. I removed the coupler nut on the guide tube and then the wheel was free to turn but a thinner diameter part of the cable would come in and out of the tube on the coupler nut side but the end of the cable wouldn't move. I assume then it is stuck in the tube and the whole steering cable is moving instead. Any advice?

 

[backyard mechanic]

Re: Steering Cable Stuck in Tube

I had the same thing happen on my outboard this year. The large (movable) end of the steering cable was stuck in the pivot tube. When you take the coupler nut off the cable moves but not the end. Disconnect all the steering arms etc from it but put a bolt in the end so you don't oblong the bolt hole when you hit/pry against it. You may even find it is a help when using leverage.

I had enough room to hit the end of the steering cable and finally free it enough to get it out. You will need to do a similar persuasion program but perhaps with a pry/leverage tool because you don't have room for a hammer. Lubricate with a rust buster product and keep trying to work that cable end back and forth in the tube. Try to grease the tube while you tap the steering tube gently. You are trying to free the rust and corrosion that is holding it. You might try to insert a tool to try and rotate the cable end. DO NOT use pliers on the cable end, you will ruin your cable for sure. Sometimes the heat from a propane torch will loosen the grease solidified in the tube. Eventually you will get it free.

Patience and persistence will win. Meanwhile don't get crazy and break something. Remember, patience and persistence not brute strength and a bigger crow bar.

 

[rlambert]

Re: Steering Cable Stuck in Tube

Thanks much for the info. I'll let you know how it goes tomorrow. Very helpful thanks.

 

[rlambert]

Re: Steering Cable Stuck in Tube

Thanks. I was able to free up the cable after a while using PB Blaster and a rubber mallet. It took a lot of time and patience like you said. Thanks again for the advice. It's as smooth as silk now.