2019 242x Steering Wheel Stuck

[Andymul]

I've seen a few posts that are almost the solve to my problem, but wanted to throw it out here for additional opinions....

New to me this year 2019 242x, first time out, found out that I could not steer. Shame on me for not checking before hand. Thankfully, we only backed away from the dock a little bit and were able to come back in and get on the trailer without issue.

My steering wheel was completely frozen in place. I could turn about 1/8 turn before hitting resistance each way. Rudder does not move. I can see the port side cable moving about 1/4" back and forth with wheel movement, but the starboard side is completely frozen.

I am going to try pumping the cable with oil as other posts suggest and report back, otherwise, I'll be replacing the cables. That's where my real question is... I see plenty of videos replacing cables on older boats or on single engine boats, but I don't know where to start on a replacement for this particular boat. Any help or resources would be much appreciated!

 

[anmut]

Things I'd try in this case in order:

1. Try moving them from the back of the boat
2. Make sure nothing was put on top or against the cables as they flow from the back of the steering column to the rear of the boat
3. Disconnect the steering cables at the back of the boat and see if they move
4. Disconnect the rudder brace and see if they move

You may end up replacing them anyway, but at least you can rule out the easy pieces.

 

[Andymul]

Things I'd try in this case in order:

1. Try moving them from the back of the boat
2. Make sure nothing was put on top or against the cables as they flow from the back of the steering column to the rear of the boat
3. Disconnect the steering cables at the back of the boat and see if they move
4. Disconnect the rudder brace and see if they move

You may end up replacing them anyway, but at least you can rule out the easy pieces.

Thanks for the advice, striking out so far.

No movement from the back, Nothing obstructing movement, no movement when disconnected from the buckets, rudder is not impacting movement.

Once i disconnected the cable from the bucket, the rudder moves freely.

Still pumping oil up the line and letting it soak until Friday or Saturday. I did order a new set of cables that will get installed either immediately if nothing moves or when I have the time if I can get movement. Are there any videos or instructions for changing the cables? I'm concerned about the install under the helm and the steering alignment. I'm confident I can get the cables in, but want to make sure everything is connected the right way and I don't cause any further harm.

 

[Neutron]

Thanks for the advice, striking out so far.

No movement from the back, Nothing obstructing movement, no movement when disconnected from the buckets, rudder is not impacting movement.

Once i disconnected the cable from the bucket, the rudder moves freely.

Still pumping oil up the line and letting it soak until Friday or Saturday. I did order a new set of cables that will get installed either immediately if nothing moves or when I have the time if I can get movement. Are there any videos or instructions for changing the cables? I'm concerned about the install under the helm and the steering alignment. I'm confident I can get the cables in, but want to make sure everything is connected the right way and I don't cause any further harm.

If its the rack and pinion style it is a one piece design. And wasn't hard but its not as easy as a 2 piece because you cant just tape the ends together and pull though.
I tied rope to the ends, pulled through, then attached the new cables to rope and pulled back through to the stern.
If you decide to do it, send me a message and i will give you my number to call to help you along

 

[Andymul]

It is the one piece design. I'm not too worried about doing the work. Are there any hidden "hangups" between the nozzle and helm?

What type of sealant should I use on the inside? Did your new set of cables come with the sleeve and seals?

I was thinking I might cut the cables under the helm and pull them through to the back that way. Are there any red flags with that plan?

Sorry for all the questions and thank you for the help!

 

[Andymul]

Update - I have the steering wheel moving now, but it's still VERY tight. I'm still pumping oil up the cables in hopes that it loosens a bit more.

I also have the part on order but it'll take a couple weeks.