stuck steering cable

[Dirty Worm]

I have 2000 Bennington Pontoon boat with a 70hp Johnson O/B. <br />The steering locks up if not used often but I always was able to free it just by turning the steering wheel. I always turned the wheel to make sure it stayed free if not using very often. This time I cant get it to budge, it only sat about 2 weeks since used last and it still froze.<br />Any suggestions on how to unstick it and why it gets stuck? I have always kept the grease fittings lubed.

 

[NMplayer]

Re: stuck steering cable

You probably need to disconnect the steering cable from the motor first. Make sure the motor will pivot on its own. If it will then inspect the steering cable for cracks and holes. You may have to take it loose to see it. Whatever you do, quit turning the steering wheel to try to move it or you'll end up like I did about a month ago. You'll stip out the steering box and then you've got to replace it. You may just have to put a new cable in.

 

[pirate2501]

Re: stuck steering cable

There should be a grease fitting on the engine tube where the steering cable goes through it. keep it greased!<br /> I had the same problem. disconnect the steering arm from the end of the cable then hold a block of wood against the cable end and tap it a few times with a hammer. don't beat on it just tap it to get it vibrating. then try turning the steering wheel. you might have to do this several times and have someone turning the steering wheel at the same time. one time I sprayed liquid wrench on it and let it sit before trying it again and finally getting it free.

 

[geaz]

Re: stuck steering cable

what do you mean by fitting...you mean for a grease gun?<br /><br />geaz

 

[pirate2501]

Re: stuck steering cable

yes for a grease gun

 

[geaz]

Re: stuck steering cable

thanks

 

[TELMANMN]

Re: stuck steering cable

WD40 will also work as prate2501 said liquid wrench. If it is just a few days seized it should hopefully free, then keep it lubed by the zert(grease fitting). While you are at it do all the other zerts on the engine. Also check cable and other connections are secure and not leaving water into the cable.

 

[jim dozier]

Re: stuck steering cable

Most engines do not have grease fittings that acutally lubricate the inside of the steering tube. They are usually there to lubricate the tilting action around the tube. There is an aftermarket version that can be installed to get lubricant into the steering tube itself. You should remove the cable from the tube and clean and lubricate it. It may be that you can clean it up or it may be time for a new cable. Mine did the same thing and I got another season out of it but it got harder and harder and I eventually replaced it. Now its smooth and silky.