Strange cracking on steering wheel or something...

[bouner]

Apparently I had a problem with my steering several months ago but never really notice it as a problem until yesterday. When I turn the wheel it will go smooth for a bit until at some point in the middle it will sound like "crack" and will lock up, although the wheel seem very loose like "if it was free". If you really push it hard, really hard it sometimes will grab and go on turning until it cracks again. I know the sound comes from the back of the steering wheel housing. My question.<br />1. Is it a serviceable part or not. <br />2. If so, how should I begin. <br /><br />Other info. 100hp johson 1987 whaler montaok

 

[moderator1]

Re: Strange cracking on steering wheel or something...

Moving to Boat questions.

 

[DJ]

Re: Strange cracking on steering wheel or something...

bouner,<br /><br />First off, make sure everything is tight on the steering head. <br /><br />Secondly, unhook the steering arm from the engine. Does it turn smooth? If so, your engines swivel bracket needs attention. If not, it's the cable and/or head. <br /><br />If it is the cable or head, replace both. You DO NOT want a cable failure at speed. You will be tossed out of the boat.<br /><br />They are not that expensive. You can get the whole deal for far less than $150.00.<br /><br />Look here:<br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/mall/index.cgi?cart_id=718710497&keywords=steering&submit=Search

 

[bouner]

Re: Strange cracking on steering wheel or something...

I can't take the wheel off. I took the nut out and pull as hard as I could. Should I hit the bolt with a hammer?

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Strange cracking on steering wheel or something...

Loosen the bolt so it is flush with the end of the bolt and while pulling on the wheel, smack the nut firmly until the wheel breaks loose. Worked for me!

 

[jlshields]

Re: Strange cracking on steering wheel or something...

If you have a tilt wheel it could be the small universal joint just forward of the wheel. Pull the rubber boot back and see if anything appears loose.<br />john

 

[bouner]

Re: Strange cracking on steering wheel or something...

 

[bouner]

Re: Strange cracking on steering wheel or something...

Rick, I did what u told me and it worked great. Thanks. I opened the rack or whatever it is called and it has a damaged bearing(the small one) almost 5 teeth missing I turned the engine by hand with the rack disconnected and it turns easily so I guess the cable is good . Anyway I’ll get the part tomorrow costs $70.00 and let’s see what happens next. Thanks Rick and all of you for your help

 

[bouner]

Re: Strange cracking on steering wheel or something...

I finished the installation of the helm unit but its not too smooth to steer. I guess the cable is old or something. I'll give it a run on Saturday to see how it feels on the water.