MY FIRST BOAT

[tsubaki]

Chances are like Reel says. The stiffness is most likely in the motor yoke tube. Given the age of the boat I would thouroghly clean the yoke tube. After spraying down the way Reel said:
Remove the linkage from the steering to the motor, paying attention to the washer locations.
Loosen and back off completely the nut for the steering to the motor on the starboard (drivers) side. If there is a grease bushing on the port side remove it.
Now try to turn the steering wheel, most likely the starboard side conection will seperate from the motor.
The steering linkage connection hole is easily deformed, use caution when banging on the tip to loosen it. Some times you can grab the shaft about 2 inches from the end with vice grips and rotate it to start loosening it up.
The most important thing is to clean thourghly and regrease with marine waterproof grease.
Cleaning the tube can be done with a long butterfly bit if severly contaminated.
Holler if this don't make sence.