The steering on my 1994 Evinrude 150 Intruder has become so stiff I'm having "HE double toothpicks" turning it in this cold weather. Does anyone know a way to resolve this issue other than replacing the cables? I could use some help, I'm already out $5K on replacing the engine block 3 months ago.

OzzieFish

Richard

My 150 Johnson is 12 years old (boat is 11). I had the steering completely replaced last year for less than $1200. It was a hazard and could have created a serious accident. From what I understand, most cable steering systems last about 5-6 years, then it's time for a new one if you are using yours a lot every year.

I could tell something was wrong when I was zipping down the lake at 50 mph and went to make a hard right and got about 1/2 a turn out of the steering wheel. I dropped back on the throttle, steered back to the left a little then eased into a right turn and made it okay. This happened to me several times after that. I had about 2-3 strands of cable broken/frayed.

I know what you're wanting to try to do (grease/oil the cable) but forget it. It's not possible. If your steering cable has a hard 90-degree turn from the engine into the hull area, it will wear pretty quick. I have a Redfin and they are notorious steering system eaters....

I just bought a used boat that had a problem with the steering cables and it almost got me and my partner hurt. It is an 18.5 ft Skeeter SF with a 175 mercury and it will run like a scalded dog. We were going about 70 when the steering slipped and we got sideways for a little bit. Sandy Creek Marina in Brownwood was supposed to have replaced the cables,but they didn't. They just greased them and charged the guy for new cables.They now make a tool you can grease the cables with but I would'nt do it. It sure could cost you later. I wet ahead and replaced my steering box and my cables,I say I did Florey Boat and Motor In Brownwood did.This is just a long way of saying don't try to take shortcuts on something a important as steering.Just trying to help.---gozzie

[This message has been edited by gozzie (edited 01-13-2003).]

I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE STEERING CABLES ON BOTH BOATS I HAVE BOUGHT. IT IS EASY TO DO, BUT THE CABLES RUN ABOUT $125 EACH. JUST DISCONNECT ONE AT A TIME FROM THE RACK UNDER THE STEERING WHEEL TO SEE WHICH ONE IS BAD, I HAD TO REPLACE BOTH OF THEM EACH TIME. ALSO, TAKE THE CABLE WITH YOU WHEN YOU GO TO BUY IT. THE REPAIR BOOKS DO NOT TELL YOU WHICH ONE YOU NEED BY YEAR AND MAKE, BECAUSE THE BOAT IS USUALLY PUT TOGETHER BY THE DEALER TO MATCH THE ENGINE YOU BUY RATHER THAN BY THE FACTORY. DO NOT PUT IT OFF, A BROKEN STEERING CABLE CAN BE DANGEROUS, NOT TO MENTION INCONVENIENT.

I had similar indications of a steering problem. The REAL problem occured when the steering went out completely while I was crossing the Intercoastal. Of course, a barge was making way directly at us. Luckily, another boat came by and pulled us to the side! Repair or replace ASAP. It's worth it. RichG

Thanks for the comments, looks like it's really in my best interest to get this replaced ASAP. I'll call around and get some quotes. The last thing I need is to get hurt or hurt someone else.

Richard, I have been in the repair business for a long time and have not found anyway to lub a bad cable. The lub system that was mentioned in another post is only good before the cable goes bad. You can figure about $100-$110 per cable. If you take it to a shop it will be about 2-3hrs labor. That cost depends on the shop rate. On most boats that do not have jackplates you have to swing the motor off the transom in order to remove and reinstall the cables. If you have any other questions you can call me or email me. I am a Lake Fork. Micheal




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