Stiff steering with 8 hp nissan outboard

[Stan500d]

Had the motor stored for winter. Took it out yesterday and found that it is very stiff to turn with tiller. Used liquid on seal on shaft, and greased it. no change after two days. Motor about 12 y/o, and this never happened after previous layups. Any suggestions??

 

[mjf55]

Not knowing exactly which model you have and what steering configuration, I looked at several parts diagrams for a 2004 ( 12 yrs old) of the bracket. Each shows a steering shaft passing through a swivel bracket. They have o-rings top and bottom. I did not see a grease fitting. Some models did have a friction plate spring/bolt which puts pressure on the steering shaft.
My guess, and probably yours , is that corrosion has built up in the shaft/bracket making it difficult.
Can you tell us exactly the model number you have so we can look further.
You can search w/ google for parts diagrams and should see several 'explodes'. This should help determine where we can lubricate the shaft to free it up.

Oh, pictures also help.

 

[Stan500d]

Thanks for the quick reply. I found an old receipt...the motor was bought in 1997. Model NS8B.. I found a parts list: www.nissanoutboardparts.com/Parts-Books.html
It shows an upper and lower grease fitting on the column and the spring bolt (which I had loosened with no effect). Trying to avoid dismantling the column, could I try circulating a corrosion dissolving fluid thru the two grease fitting holes? If so what solvent would you suggest?

 

[mjf55]

I am thinking about WD40 or PB Blaster as something that can get in on the shaft and loosen the corrosion. working the motor back and forth will help when you spray.
There is also (probably) old grease in the tube. I think that once you loosen up the shaft, pump in some new grease. Perhaps remove one of the grease fittings to give the old grease a place to exit.

 

[Stan500d]

Started that with WD40. Some movement, but not much. The shaft is just iron, and where exposed has rustedto the point of scaling...I'm guessing water got down between the shaft and bushing, and corroded badly...Thanks for your suggestions...