1998 210 Bow Rider Tight Steering

Beery

New Member
Oct 6, 2020
10
Boat Info
1998 210 Signature Bowrider
Engines
5.7L Mercruiser w/ Alpha 1
Hello, I'm new to the forum. I just purchased my first boat, a 1998 Sea Ray 210 Bow Rider and couldn't be happier with it. It's obvious the boat has been well cared for and is in great shape however, during sea trials I noticed the steering seemed harder than it should be. From what I've read in other forums it sounds like the first thing to check is the steering cable. Does anyone have experience replacing a steering cable on a similar model year? Recommend where to get a steering cable? Thanks!
 
Make sure it's the cable first. Disconnect it from behind the motor and try it then. Steering helms can fail as well.
 
Thanks! So maybe I start at the helm, disconnect the rack end of the cable from the pinion. If that moves freely bolt it back on and disconnect the other end of the cable from behind the motor.
 
Well here I am many moons later and I still have a steering issue. Here's what I've done so far. I disconnected the steering cable at the motor and the wheel turns freely. This makes me think that everything from the cable at the motor end up to the steering wheel is working properly. Next up is the steering actuator and the power steering pump. Does anyone know of a good way to test either of these? Is one more prone to fail before the other?
 
I haven't tried that. If it does not move freely would that point to something other than actuator or pump?
 
Yes, the pivot points for the drive on the outer transom mount would be corroded / seized.

I have a PDF of the Mercruiser drive installation shop manual if you need it. Covers the transom assy inner and outer, steering, trim, electrical / wiring, gauges, controls, adjustments and such.

Also have the Alpha maintenance / repair manual if you need that too.
 
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