Steering Cable Replacement

[loydt]

How many have done this themselves? Was it a hard job?

Mine looks relatively simple. There is a lock nut back at the transom and then another on the rack where connects to steering wheel assembly.

My steering is very bad and it is gonna get me in trouble if I dont replace it soon!!!

 

[Redhook98]

It's very easy. Just be patient. Getting that cable to bend in some of those areas where it runs is a bit tough. It is not worth paying someone, trust me.....

Yes, you are right. It is just the connection under the dash, and the nut (and pin) at the actuator.

 

[loydt]

Mine only has two bends in it. Where it bends to connect to rack and then back at transom.

I was quoted $600 by local mobile mechanic.

 

[Redhook98]

Yikes!!! The cable is only $100, or less. Do it yourself...

 

[loydt]

Gonna try my best to get it out tonight. My luck nobody will have the cable in stock!!

 

[Sorrento Dude]

Its not that hard. If you do replace the rack and helm, just make sure that you put it on right. The rack goes on top of the helm. I foud out the hard way that i put it on wrong when trying to leave the dock. It was very embarassing when you go to turn left and you hit the dock on the right with the bow. :huh: Good luck.

 

[Redhook98]

Its not that hard. If you do replace the rack and helm, just make sure that you put it on right. The rack goes on top of the helm. I foud out the hard way that i put it on wrong when trying to leave the dock. It was very embarassing when you go to turn left and you hit the dock on the right with the bow. :huh: Good luck.

That depends on which side of the boat the cable runs down......

 

[loydt]

Mine runs right down the driver's side in to the transom. It looks easy, but looks will be deceiving, I am sure!!

What will I find once I loosen those nuts on both ends? How does the cable connect on either end?

 

[loydt]

Curious as to which style will be mine. The "rack and pinion" style here:

http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wc...toreNum=10106&subdeptNum=10469&classNum=10471

Or just the standard steering cable here:

http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wc...toreNum=10106&subdeptNum=10469&classNum=10471

 

[loydt]

OK, got it out. I had to take the whole "rack" off the back of the steering wheel so I guess that is one piece all together? That being said, I guess I need to order the "rack and pinion" style above? When measuring, do you measure the entire cable with or without the rack?

 

[Sorrento Dude]

The length may be labeled on the transom side of the steering cable. There is a formula for getting the correct length, but i dont remember what it is. Search the net and i sure you can find the correct way.

 

[loydt]

It had 16'-6" stamped on it. I ordered the 17' Teleflex Rack system.

 

[loydt]

The bad thing about this change was I could no longer use my existing Sea Ray steering wheel. Since I had to replace the helm too. Old helm had a square shaft, new one had a round. UGH!