215 EC steering issue

[badjujumatt]

My first post to this group!

My steering requires two hands on the wheel, extremely difficult to turn my 2000 215EC. My mechanic said that the steering cable probably needs to be replaced, which at 12 years old doesnt surprise me. However, he said they may have to pull the motor to replace the cable. Is this true or is it time to go to my local dealer for the repair?

Thanks!

Matt

 

[mlsinger1]

I replaced the steering cable on my 2001 215EC w/5.7 and did not pull the motor. It is a little tight but not a difficult job.

 

[Marco]

I replaced the steering cable in my 1999 215EC a few years ago. As I recall, it was not difficult to reach anything at all. It probably took longer to run to the marine store to purchase the cable than it took to install it.

 

[KC WV]

It's not so bad. I replaced mine last year on my '97. With the panels removed from both sides, on each side of the engine cover, you have full access to behind the engine. It's a tight squeeze. Mine was very difficult to steer, and became tighter by the day. I replaced it and couldn't believe the difference. I took my old one off to take with me to get the new one.

 

[BOB TASSONI]

Can you replace this cable while the boat is in the water?

 

[EDMAN]

It's a snap. Changed mine this spring. Make sure you tie a rope to the old one when you pull it out. It would be a lot easier to do with 2 people. Even a child would help. Once attached to the helm to turn the steering wheel to line up the pin holes at the transom end. Be careful not to disturbe any wiring in the side panel. I knocked off a wire behind the speaker,took a while to figure out why it wouldn't start. Go2marine $126.00. It's like getting a new boat.