Steering problem

#1 09-12-2004, 12:37 AM

Boat has been running fine, but today developed a steering problem. Started to steer to port with a lot of resistance on wheel. Then no steering to port. Wheel just spins when turned. Steering to starboard is fine. What do you think do I need a new helm or just a cable?
I'll pull it apart on Monday to take a look.

Feeling pretty good about my seamanship. Managed to cross Boston harbor by using the wheel to steer to starboard and then using wind to blow me to port. Managed to avoid an LNG tanker and a couple of ferries. Even managed to pickup my mooring by steering to starboard and the reversing with the wheel over to starboard to move to port. Pretty tricky but I did it.

chumbucket · #2 09-12-2004, 09:32 AM

Glad you got back to port safely. My guess is that it's the helm unit. Same thing happened to me. My cable was fine. You're going to have to disconnect it to troubleshoot it to be sure. Probably going to run you about $60-$70 if it is just the helm unit.
Good luck.

ps; Are you guys going to the MSBA meeting Wednesday night? Unless I get roped into working, I'm going to try to make it. Would like to say Hello. ;D

macojoe · #3 09-12-2004, 11:17 AM

Helm is shot!!
For the money I would buy a hole new unit helm and cable!! Like $150 Then you can save the new cable for when yours mess up!!
The cost for the cable and helm seprate is like double the price of the package deal!! So go for the combo and be perpared for the next time!

Yea CB is going to be my date wed night!! *;) :-*

chumbucket · #4 09-12-2004, 11:57 AM

:-*

#5 09-13-2004, 04:04 AM

I just had my helm and cable replaced with NFB system. I have not even taken it out yet. I had a local shop do this when I found out I had to lift engine to get old steering cable out of tube on outboard. There was not enough room to do so otherwise.
Check to be sure you can remove old cable and install new w/o removing engine first. This may save you some swear time and help in making your descision.

Just an FYI.

CBuzz

labii · #6 09-13-2004, 10:58 AM

Cbuz , I too also instaled the NFB system and love it . Again , on my 1994 I also had to lift the motor due to lack of room .

Airslot · #7 09-13-2004, 12:15 PM

Have no-feedback on my 87 and love it. Would have to pull engine to install new cable on mine as well.

Airslot

#8 09-15-2004, 08:39 PM

Replaced helm today. The biggest problem was finding a helm that would work with my old stlye, not quick connect, cable. Found one but at a premium $100. but this way I didn't have to change cable. By the way is there any way to lube the entire cable length?

helm swap took less than an hour and all seems well.

macojoe · #9 09-17-2004, 10:50 AM

Yes I have the lube system on my boat and it works great!!
But it seems that were the cable goes into the motor is were they all freeze up!
I have a bracket and have no problem with pulling my cable ::) So I take it out for the winter every year clean grease wrap and in the spring I reinstall.

Well glad to here its all set!! Not lets go Cod fishing!! (see SB Site)