Stiff Steering - kinda stupid question

[Scuda11]

Hi guys,<br /><br />Kind of a stupid question I think. 76 proline, 83 Johnson 200. I have lubed and lubed but steering is still very tough. went to take off the "cable" end heading into what I think is called the tilt tube (??), to check it out, but here is the stupid question part: It only twists half-way because of the cable, do I have to take the eng off to do this?<br /><br />I just retired from the Coast Guard, but only drove them, had other people fix them! I have learned allot from this board already.<br /><br />Thanks very, very much in advance.

 

[OBJ]

Re: Stiff Steering - kinda stupid question

If your trying to remove the cable from the tilt tube, probably yes, you'll have to lift the engine to give you room to do so. It's not unusual to have to do this. Generally you don't even have to disconnect anything from the engine either, wire harness' and what not. Running in salt water probably got the inside of the tilt tube corroded. Pull the cable out and see if the wheel turns any easier. Hopefully it will. Clean the tube out real good. A round wire brush will do the job. Before reassembly, grease the crap outta it before putting the cable back in.<br /><br />Keep us posted....thanks.

 

[Scuda11]

Re: Stiff Steering - kinda stupid question

Thanks very much OBJ, I will try to do that. <br /><br />Quick question though, is there anything else I can do short of removing the engine? I disconnected the eng from the shaft and the eng rotates freely, so I know it is steering. Thanks, not too easy lifting a 200 hp off, but I will borrow some gear if I have to. thanks again!

 

[OBJ]

Re: Stiff Steering - kinda stupid question

Only thing I can think of is, if it's indeed the steering cable.....don't mess with it by trying to free it up. Put a new one on. Lose your steering in a tight situation and.......well....could mean more than just a boat.<br /><br />Keep us posted DM....