Re: Steering cabling system
All "modern" Ride-Guide-type steering systems have the same nut size as far as I know. On some very old Merc's the size of the Ride-Guide tube (and nut size of the steering cable) was smaller, but that was Many Many moons ago!
On getting a replacement, most cables will have a length marking and sometimes a part number stamped or etched into them, somewhere along the length of the cable. Once you pull it out you may find that info, which will help when ordering a new one.
Otherwise, there are standard measurements to take (depending on the mfr of the steering system) to determine correct cable length. The website you order from (or the 'steering in a box' you're looking at in the local store) will have specific instructions on how to measure for their steering system.
Also note some of these steering systems you have to replace everything including the rack assy, 'cause they don't come apart. Others you can just undo the cable and away you go.
If you have to get a whole new system, with a motor that big I'd recommend a non-feedback-type of steering. In other words, you can't grab hold of the motor and flop it back and forth, making the steering wheel kick back.
With the "rack and pinion" type of steering system, you can do this, and of course motor torque will feed back into the steering wheel, making the boat harder to control.
Ideally you'd have a dual-cable system but it sounds like you've only got one cable. At least with the anti-feedback steering head it's a lot safer to handle.
Just a thought. HTH & have fun replacing that cable, one of my least-favorite jobs!................ed
