[Seacrets]

Install hydraulic steering and be done with your problems. A jackplate is primarily used for shallow water running and they cost much more than hydraulic steering if you select a hydraulic model. Just think, no more cables to freeze up and no steering torque either.
You don't have to remove the motor to remove the old cable. You can cut it with a hack saw. They're really easy to install too. Got mine on ebay from a guy in N.C. It was $465.00. All new stuff too. He has them on ebay all the time. I think his name was Cherry. Did you use any steering components from your Merc? Maybe you can fix your problem with another type of steering arm. Good luck.