2022 SX210 Hard steering

[01ChevyGuy]

Got the boat out for the first time this season and the steering is incredibly stiff. Not quite locked up but it takes some muscle to move. My only troubleshooting so far has been to disconnect the linkages on the nozzles and confirmed the nozzles and rudder move freely, steering is still stiff when disconnected.

I ordered the service manual. I'm new to boating, but generally good with tools. Any thoughts on next steps?

The boat only has 27 hours and was winterized by the dealer last fall. Stored outside over the winter, but winters are relatively mild here - occasional freeze but no snow or ice. Should I be concerned about anything the dealer may have missed or is this something that happens when taking the boat out of storage?

 

[VitaminSea]

Sounds like a similar issue to what @HangOutdoors experienced. IIRC he had to replace his steering cables.

Here’s the thread.

https://jetboaters.net/threads/2020-ar210-stiff-steering.32643/

 

[01ChevyGuy]

Thanks for pointing me to the thread. I searched a bunch of threads about steering but missed this one.

 

[Dixemon]

There are a lot of threads on lubing the cables. That would be a great thing to do if you believe the problems are within the cables. I lube mine with corrosion X yearly , but a synthetic oil will work just as well I'm sure. Those little boots on the steering cables are garbage, they will dry rot and crack on you. Especially if you use a petroleum based CPC on them, ie. CRC 656.