Steers to the Right but Slips Going Left...

[minkota]

I have a 18' 1988 Sea Swirl Fish/Ski with a 1988 Johnson 120hp. I purchased the boat about a year and a half ago and the previous owner replaced the steering wheel, gear box and (Single) Steering cable just before the sale. I was out on it today and went to turn left and the wheel just kept turning and the motor moved but very slow and not much movement, but if I went to the right it works normally. I can turn the motor very easily from behind the boat so I do not think the problem is at the motor. Has anyone else experienced this before, does it sound like a bad gear box or did something come loose? Thanks in advance.

 

[minkota]

Re: Steers to the Right but Slips Going Left...

???

 

[F_R]

Re: Steers to the Right but Slips Going Left...

Well, you said it has a cable. So I guess that means it isn't hydraulic steering. So, that lets that theory out.

 

[Will Bark]

Re: Steers to the Right but Slips Going Left...

If you have a rack and pinion steering then you have slippage in the rack which is attached to your steering wheel. you'll have to take the rack out from behind the console and see why it is slipping.

 

[minkota]

Re: Steers to the Right but Slips Going Left...

ok, I found what I think is the problem. the shaft is a tapered shaft with a slot for a woodruff key, there was no key installed, is it required or not? where can I get one or do I need to buy a new steering wheel.

 

[emdsapmgr]

Re: Steers to the Right but Slips Going Left...

Many hardware stores carry woodruff keys. You'll need to replace it. Take the steering wheel with you to get the correct one which will fit the keyway. Should be a really cheap fix.

 

[minkota]

Re: Steers to the Right but Slips Going Left...

I went to a local Marine Parts House and found a Steering Wheel Kit (included, Nut, Washer, and Woodruf Key) for Teleflex, cost $11! Back in business yaaaaa! Thanks for all your help.