Stiff steering cables

[tnfatguy]

I have a 1996 Nitro with a 150hp Mercury and it is getting very hard to steer. It has a dual rack cable system. My question is: Is there any way to clean/relube the cables? Or should I go ahead and get new cables? emoScratch

 

[Punisher]

Did you try the 3 to 4 grease fittings on the motor first, it helps

 

[tnfatguy]

Yes, I have greased all of the fittings and it is still stiff.

 

[Punisher]

Sorry hoped that would work for you and whole lot cheaper too

 

[SKIDROW37]

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Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Downers Grove Posts: 100




Found this on another site maybe it will help.



I have always lubed my cables. In fact I did that to my current boat, you couldn`t turn the wheel when I got it. The trick is more power. If you let gravity do the work there is not much chance of it working....however, if you get a piece of clear hose, clamp it on over the end, (after you loosened the inner guide, sorry I don`t have a cable nearby so no pics) then you fill the hose with some w-d40. Now for the important part.....put a quick disconnect on the other end of the hose and hook it to the aircompressor. After you force some wd40 through you can move to heavier trans fluid or whatever the oil of your choice is.



10' Custom with 25 Merc_____17' Sleekcraft jet____85 El Camino SS 5.3L/4l60E 3.73 posi____1980 Chevette 4.3L v6/4l60e____www.fquick.com/G-Body

 

[TOMMY 20RXD]

REPLACE THE CABLES OR GO WITH HYD.

 

[stumpy]

i vote for hyd. if you have to run new cables youll be right there to run the hoses, nice upgrade in my book.

 

[tnfatguy]

That is what I have decided to do. Does anyone on here run the Baystar system on a 150hp?

 

[lucky rapala]

u will love hyd stering i put it on my boat and i love it and went to a 3 blade and pick up 4 mi

 

[stratos21xl]

I would check the helm and make sure it's good before putting any money into cables or hydraulic steering.

 

[tnfatguy]

I installed a Bay Star hydraulic system today and I love it.

 

[d8chison]

Since you have installed the baystar steering, have you used it much and how would you say it works? I have a 1997 Nitro 884, and need to replace my cables and have decided to go with the baystar, however, i have been told to go with the seastar. What's your thoughts? emoScratch

 

[d8chison]

ps, i also have a 150 Merc Mariner, EFI.

 

[Liveliner]

I see this in your signature --- "and Baystar Hydraulic Steering" Do you have Hydraulic steering already on your boat?</p>

I have SeaStar Hydraulic Steering and I have no cables in my Proline.</p>

</p>

 

[outcaster]

Replace the cable. My dad and did it in just a few hours after watching a couple of youtube vids on it. I have a 96 Nitro. My steering was completely frozen and the rack was broken. Saved a ton of money too! Got the parts for $135. The hardest part was removing the steering wheel, and pulling (beating) out the corroded old cable.