Very tight steering

[dhauser]

While I'm at it, this year my steering is VERY tight - it's a chore to turn it, although it's slowly getting easier with use. (This is your basic non-power steering system) I'm going to have it looked at, but wondering if there is some maintenance for the steering I'm unaware of? Thanks

 

[Alumarine]

Re: Very tight steering

Don't know what kind of boat you have but often there is a grease fitting on the steering ram in the engine bay.<br />I think as a rule you may need a new steering cable.

 

[dhauser]

Re: Very tight steering

Hi Thanks<br />It's a 16' Sea Sprite merc 120 i/o. As we steer, you can actually hear it making noise like a crackling sound. behind the dash is a long, narrow housing that obviously has something moving inside, but I don't see anything where one would add grease or lubricant. Maybe it's best to replace it altogether depending on cost? At the beginning of the season it was actually stuck, but "popped free" with some careful working of the wheel - so something is definitely not lubed somewhere!

 

[Alumarine]

Re: Very tight steering

I think the only greasable part is the steering ram in the ENGINE BAY.