195 has stiff steering

[Grayjrk]

Finally in the water and the steering is wicked tight. My info packet doesn't include info on the cable.
Anyone know what kind it is and how long. Hopefully it is generic and I can easily purchase it.
Thanks

 

[ScarabMike]

How many hours are on the boat, and do you use it in salt water alot?

You probably need to lubricate your steering cable, or check your nozzle for rust or obstructions.

 

[Grayjrk]

Thanks for the response ScarabMike. I have 103 hours and I do use it in the salt water.
I do spray 656 regularly and when it stiffened up I also hit it with penetrating oil.
Nozzle was rust free and clear of any obstructions. I was actually hoping to find something there.
Doesn't look like any easy cable swap out either.

 

[ScarabMike]

Thanks for the response ScarabMike. I have 103 hours and I do use it in the salt water.
I do spray 656 regularly and when it stiffened up I also hit it with penetrating oil.
Nozzle was rust free and clear of any obstructions. I was actually hoping to find something there.
Doesn't look like any easy cable swap out either.

Go into your helm from the front seat. Take down the white cover, and check the steering connection. Spray it with 656, and grease the connections.

 

[mferrari]

Steering cable should run about $150. I don't remember the length off the top of my head but I know Ive sold one.

 

[Gym]

Finally in the water and the steering is wicked tight. My info packet doesn't include info on the cable.
Anyone know what kind it is and how long. Hopefully it is generic and I can easily purchase it.
Thanks

As soon as you wrote wicked I know you were from the Boston area. Regardless of the type of boat you're driving stiff steering generally equates to rusted cables. You do want to isolate the trouble by disconnecting your cables at the buckets or helm to make sure it's not the helm gearbox or the buckets but it usually boils down to those wicked steering cables. Wish they would make them from stainless steel.

 

[Grayjrk]

Thanks for the input guys. I didn't even realize my wicked description until you mentioned it!

 

[Gym]

The issue with our cables is the lower 18 inches. When you steer L or R ot you shift F,N,R you may expose the lower end of the cable to salt water, especially when the small rubber boots get old and lazy. A preventative is to lubricate the cables prior to each season. There is a process detailed in the FAQ section of this forum.