Stuck Steering OMC 4.3 Cobra

[Roboat]

Heres the problem I have an 1989 23 Ft, with an OMC 4BBL 4.3 Liter Cobra IO.
The steering got stuck full port, Ill add with a lot of belt squealing Hydro fluid loss near the actuator action. The Boat is on land with the steering totally removed the lower support bracket off, both trim cylinders off and supported and both of the pivot pins are removed. The PIVOT housing bolts are also removed. The Gimbal Assembly will still not turn left right and I cannot remove it. The Steering arm puller just makes the arm go up and I am afraid to crack the Gimbal Housing. Any ideas what next are very appreciated.

 

[Don S]

Re: Stuck Steering OMC 4.3 Cobra

Did this happen suddenly, or has the boat been sitting for a while?
Is the steering cable still hooked to the tiller arm on the drive, can it be removed from the steering cylinder?

 

[Roboat]

Re: Stuck Steering OMC 4.3 Cobra

The Boat sat or was being worked on for a season, new fuel tank deck and stringers. Then it was in a short time and working normal. The steering cable is very loose and moves nicely when disconnected from the tiller as does the power assist piston. At this point I wish it was a steering cable. I brought a transom seal kit to replace the bushings on the transom assembly.