steering problems w/merc alpha 1

[terjen]

i have a 1988 Citation Cuddy with the 3.7 litre 4 cyl Mercruiser 165 with alpha one drive. The motor says "power steering" on carb cleaner, however I have terrible steering with the wheel feeling stuck at times espeically at low speed. takes all my might to turn at slow speed, better at high speed. Feels sticky. Anybody have any ideas what the problem might be and how to fix. Thanks.

 

[rndn]

Re: steering problems w/merc alpha 1

Welcome to the forum!!
Is the power steering pump full of fluid? Is the belt tight?

 

[terjen]

Re: steering problems w/merc alpha 1

I don't know, but will check those things tonight. Thanks for the reply.

 

[Bondo]

Re: steering problems w/merc alpha 1

Ayuh,.... Welcome Aboard,...

That definitely the place to Start.....

It could also be the Steering Cable,+/ or the Helm are Worn Out,+ need Replacing....

 

[terjen]

Re: steering problems w/merc alpha 1

thanks for the tips....there seems to be plenty of fluid in the steering reservoir and the belt seems to be tight. What would be my next step?? If it is the steering cable or helm...any idea of the cost to fix?

And if there are any other Citation owners out there I would like to hear from you. I think we are a rare breed.

 

[Fishermark]

Re: steering problems w/merc alpha 1

You can disconnect the steering cable from the outdrive - (the tiller arm I believe it is called). And see if the outdrive moves easily and freely by hand. Also, does the steering cable move freely then? Also try removing the cable end from the aluminum tube to see if there is corrosion and build up there.

 

[terjen]

Re: steering problems w/merc alpha 1

i tried to loosen the steering cable from the outdrive, but the cable goes into an adapter of some type where there are two connecting bolts...the boat has power steering so i assume that the actuater. I wasn't able to get the bolts loose enough to pull apart. I went by my local marine mechanic and he thought it would be just the cable but recommended a kit to replace helm, cable, and thought $350.00 would cover it. What is your opinion on this? Once i did loosen the bolts the steering wheel did seem to free up a bit.

 

[Tim J]

Re: steering problems w/merc alpha 1

I also have an Alpha 1 and experienced a problem with tight steering after my boat sat all winter. I greased the rod that slides in/out of the steering cylinder and it now works fine.

 

[Fishermark]

Re: steering problems w/merc alpha 1

Here's a post which may help:

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=250898&highlight=tube

 

[terjen]

Re: steering problems w/merc alpha 1

thank you for all the input, i will go over the steering components this weekend and see what happens.