Stiff steering '96 252

[akorcovelos]

Finding mixed info the the Web about lubricating the steering cable in my 252. Does anyone know if it should have some zirks, or if there is a procedure to lubricate the rack?

If it just need to be replaced where do I find the correct assembly, cobalt?

Very odd as none of my older boats have had this issue. Power steering is working properly from what I can tell.

[cmattj]

Finding mixed info the the Web about lubricating the steering cable in my 252. Does anyone know if it should have some zirks, or if there is a procedure to lubricate the rack?

If it just need to be replaced where do I find the correct assembly, cobalt?

Very odd as none of my older boats have had this issue. Power steering is working properly from what I can tell.

The power steering senses input and creates pressure only when you move the wheel when running. A simple way is to kick the rpms up to 1800 rpm ( neutral button on shifter depressed first) and see if it changes.

I would disconnect the cable at the rear , and check how the steering feels. Then grab the outdrive and move it side to side to see if the gimbal or pins are binding.

Most likely just a tired steering cable and needs replacing. Cable lubers only work if the ends are corroded and only for a minute.
See a fun winter project

[akorcovelos]

Well the drive was fully serviced before I took possession from the dealer, so it's got new gimble, bellows, etc.. RPM doesn't change it, it's just stiff. I assume it just needs a new cable. I'll pull the end off the drive when I uncover it in spring ans see how it feels, but if I need to replace can I get a universal cable or is there a specific Cobalt part number I need to use? Probably use it as an excuse to update the steering wheel too.

[cmattj]

Well the drive was fully serviced before I took possession from the dealer, so it's got new gimble, bellows, etc.. RPM doesn't change it, it's just stiff. I assume it just needs a new cable. I'll pull the end off the drive when I uncover it in spring ans see how it feels, but if I need to replace can I get a universal cable or is there a specific Cobalt part number I need to use? Probably use it as an excuse to update the steering wheel too.

There ya go.. wheel upgrade . Morse or teleflex will have them through west Marine or possibly $$ Cobalt. They will come with different ends Incase yours won’t swap.

[Holy Smokes]

Definitely sounds like a worn out cable. Take a look along the cable and you should find a 3 digit number. It's the length in inches. Re-order a standard steering cable from Morse or Teleflex (like cmattj mentioned above). Not too hard of an install. Pull each end loose then you can either try & guide it back through or tape the new to the old and pull it through.

Did this on an old Baja years ago. Steering was stiff as hell. Replaced the steering helm & cable with a full kit and was able to turn the wheel with one finger.

[akorcovelos]

ok cool, good to know I can just use a teleflex, I've replaced them on outboards before, and I have a large enough fish tape to pull the new one through. It's not horribly stiff, but compared to my '84 Webbcraft it's obviously not 100%.

[smokymance]

Did you end up replacing your steering cable? Wondering how it went.