Read This Before Posting! Each steering system has unique problems and solutions. A quick inspection of your steering system can spot a problem before it leaves you stranded. Steering wheel being loose can be caused by a couple of things. $89.99. Steering cable. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Inspect all of these areas for the hydraulic fluid on the deck. Pasted as rich text. Rating: 0%. Star Brite Wheel Bearing Grease 4. He was sailing the Tradewind 35, read more, Leg 3 is the showpiece of The Ocean Race, combining exhausting conditions, constant boat repairs, and challenging tactics. Blocks, Marine boats.com is part of the Boats Group Network. Clear editor. A retired ship captain, Charpentier holds a doctorate in applied ocean science and engineering. You should become familiar with your steering system and know how to diagnose common issues. Protection, Ladders, Steps, & You will need access behind the helm or helms, the lazaret(if equipped), and the transom or engine compartment. This is critical. Accessories, Boat Lift Canopy Handles, Life Jackets & When possible, ask a fellow boater to tow you in or call the authorities for assistance. When it retracts, it pulls the motor in the opposite direction. If you use too much grease on the rod, or in your case likely there's an external grease fitting on the front steering cable tube, it'll force grease into the cable and jam it. The skeg is on the anti cavitation plate just above the prop. Starters, Marine Solar Power Sealant, & To tighten simply tighten up the nut on the eye bolt on the steering quadrant. With over 10 years of experience in mobile detailing, Angel continues to attend auto detailing trainings to improve his customer service and auto detailing skills. 3 - Motor swivel pin or pivot point is in need of cleaning and/or lubrication. You will need to inspect the traditional system components before getting underway to reduce the likelihood of a problem. Platforms, Slide Ed Sherman is a regular contributor to boats.com, as well as to Professional Boatbuilder and Cruising World, where he previously was electronics editor. Apply some 30W oil on a cotton ball, fold it around a wire, and then slide the cotton back and forth along the wire. Lubricate all the chain links with 30W motor oil, and put a couple of drops of oil on the threads of the brake knob on the pedestal. References. Whether youre performing regular maintenance or cleaning the wheel more thoroughly, you can make your steering wheel shine! Ive checked the fluid and its topped right up to the correct level. The ideal approach to achieve this is to keep the car on the ground and put all of its pressure on the suspension and steering mechanism, since lifting the vehicle will cause the elements to lock or weld against each other, reducing any potential for free play. After opening up the cylinder, remove the plastic cap off the tube of Yamaha marine grease. Typically, this involves inserting the tip of a squeeze tube of Teflon grease into a hole in the bearing housing. Aug 24, 2010. The only thing about the boat I don't like is that the steering wheel is very loose and I cannot let go of the wheel even for a second without it spinning to the right. Ropes, Boat In smaller vessels, this is usually just the helm and the steering cylinder. There are several motor cleaning and scrubbing tools available commercially, or you can use a drill motor to clean your tilt tube. Hardware, Marine Some areas have towing services that will help for a fee. A complete steering failure can be a true emergency. If the cable end comes out of the tilt tube and this fixes the problem, then clean the tilt tube, lubricate the cable end with marine grease, and reassemble the steering. Star Brite 026214 White Lithium Grease. Eye fittings can fail at the point where the thimble wears against the clevis. This is normally done at the helm. This article has been viewed 133,914 times. If you're not sure what to use, opt for leather cleaner. Typically, there will be an adjusting screw beneath a geared quadrant, right below the pinion. What comes next is often not pleasant, and it is why you need to check your steering system at least once a, 2023 Active Interest Media All Rights Reserved. This action is what causes the disk, or quadrant, to rotate, turn the rudder shaft, and swing the rudder. It should resemble a spring with a cable running through the center. A clockwise movement of the vessels steering column will drive hydraulic power from the head pumping system into the vessels starboard flank hydraulic line when it is in function. If the boat has sat and the grease is allowed to harden or corrosion allowed to build up, the cable end will not move freely through the tube. Axles, Boat Trailer Tie Detectors, Binoculars & Sudden steering failure and the level of maintenance required to prevent it are both inversely related to the rigidity of the link between your hand and the rudder. Use your knowledge to assess why your steering failed and determine if you can fix the problem. Rafts, Paddle Use your socket wrench to remove the steering tilt tube from its connections on the outboard motor. He also is the curriculum director for the American Boat and Yacht Council. Insurance, Boat How To Choose The Right Paddle Board For Children, The Best Outdoor Activities for families in Texas. You may need special equipment like a torch or a push rod to get the cable end out of the tilt tube. Rotary systems have a smaller machine and will fit more easily in tighter spaces. Hardware, Boat Trailer Holders, Cabin Accessories & How To Remove Gas From Boat Fuel Tank in Quick and Easy Steps! We have prepared a list of tools you will need, as well as helpful techniques to get you started. This helpful how-to video shows you how to ensure your outboard motor is maintained for peak performance. If the cable does not move at all, but the steering wheel freely moves, then the problem is most likely at the helm. The maximum bend allowed for most cables is an eight-inch radius. $31.99. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 133,914 times. Fasten the cable screw using an open-end tool if the cable slides. Grease the cable through the newly installed grease fitting with a grease gun, using the marine grease recommended by the steering system manufacturer. Know your boat, maintain it properly, and have a plan for emergencies and you can expect many happy days on the water. Then you have to remove the tilt steering unit. However, since steering components are regarded as essential parts for safety, it is better to deal with any concerns as quickly as possible if they arise. Use paper towels if you dont have an extra cleaning cloth. A boat turns in to the channel between two piers at a marina but then begins to veer off line. Nicks can damage the seals and cause leaks. If you plan to be in remote areas, make sure you have a primary, alternate, contingency, and emergency plan to return safely. Clean When you have removed the steering arm, go ahead and clean off marine grease that has hardened in the tube. I'd try some good old white vinigar to remove grime and mold, more so mold then either a leather conditioner from the auto parts or Wallys or. Then, with the helm threads protected by the nut, youll want to position one leg beneath the steering wheel as well as the other arm from the other side of the machine to complete the operation. Engine, Stern Drive, or Rudder Issues 3. So what's to lose? This article was co-authored by Angel Ricardo and by wikiHow staff writer, Hunter Rising. Check for Tilt Tube Problems 4. Steering wheel being loose can be caused by a couple of things. Sand this piece using your extra fine type of sandpaper. Owning a boat is fun but can be a lot of work. If the wheel was loose, the keyway may be beaten out and giving you too much play. If the wheel was loose, the keyway may be beaten out and giving you too much play. Start by adding dimensions A + B + C. For installations through engine tilt tube. Remember that your ability to travel and even your safety may rest on your steering, whether you need to alter the coaxial cables or remove the steering cord. We all know how difficult it can be to get such wheels off after years of becoming clung to by everybody and driving our vessels in the compartments and whittle down for what they really are, so this is the ideal route to get them loose without needing to use costly pullers or tools. How To Lube Steering Cable On Boat the Right Way Straight From The Pros! Dollies, SportsStuff Great Big The skipper makes a small steering adjustment, followed by a larger one, and then he realizes that the wheel is no longer connected to the rudder. All, Boat Bimini 2. July 23, 2009 in Bass Boats, Canoes, Kayaks and more. Bullet Skimmer, Paint and Plumbing, Fresh Water Boat The very rear part of the tab should be more to the starboad side. How Safe and Reliable Are Inboard Electric Motors? Eds blog posts appear courtesy of his website, EdsBoatTips. Too much hull drag will creat tons of steering torque. Leather cleaner is very gentle, and you can use it on a variety of different surfaces without damaging it. Re: Getting Grease Into the Steering Shaft Maybe remove that zerk fitting (it's either screwed in or pressed in), stick a wire in to clear away some old hard grease. Its also a response to owner feedback, representing four read more, Yesterday, Golden Globe Race organizers announced a Code Red situation for skipper Ian Herbert-Jones, whose EPIRB was activated in the midst of a massive south Atlantic storm with winds gusting in the high 80s and a sea state of around 20 feet. Inspect the steering rack's wire nut to make sure the nut is tight and the cable is moving smoothly. Leaks 2. Common leaks occur where the hoses attach to various components. When steering tube grease hardens, it stops the movement of the steering cable, resulting in steering stiffness or lockup. Let it drain. This is just one of the many maintenance jobs you need to do, so you can ensure the proper condition of your water vessel. The tilt tube fixes the cables end in place and allows for adjustment to fine-tune the steering system. When the wheel is turned, the rack moves, moving the cable. Electronic systems are the latest and offer the ultimate in modern performance. If the shaft in the helm turns with the wheel but the cable does not move with the rocking of the wheel, your helm is probably worn out. There should be a grease cup in the middle that can pump fresh grease into the conduit. read more, Nerd alert: Were talking networks and data this month, none of which is really integral to the safe running of a boat as far as seamanship is concerned, but all of which is addictingly fun and surprisingly enlightening. Covers, Other Read the complete article on the Mercury Marine Dockline blog: https://www.mercurymarine.com/en/us/dockline/quick-tip-how-to-use-safety-chains-with-your-boat-trailer/..Visit our website!https://www.mercurymarine.com/en/us/Check us out on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mercurymarine/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MercuryMarineTwitter: https://twitter.com/MercuryMarineTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mercurymarineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mercury-marine/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mercurymarine/ Instruments, VHF Radios & Ventilation, Interior & Cabin Clean any hardened marine grease from the inside of the tube by spraying the inside of the tube with a penetrating lubricant. When the chain is off the sprocket, lubricate the front and rear shaft bearings. The wheels seem to get stagnant onto the helm which can be harder to eliminate so this is the smartest method to let them out without having to use expensive lifters or instruments. A + B + C + 6" = cable length (round up to the next largest size) Example: A = 18" B = 96" C = 24" Total: 138" + 6" = 144" = 12 ft. cable For installations mounted to transom or splashwell. You could stop by any boat dealer or repair shop, it only takes a second to show how to adjust or explain. If I let go now the boat will eventually make circles. How do you tighten the steering on a boat? It may not display this or other websites correctly. Diagnose the Problem Step 3. I'm worried the grease will end up oozing all over the helm compartment on a hot day. var sc_security="4bca0001"; If the steering on your boat is abnormally stiff, make absolutely sure the engine is properly greased first. This can be a nightmare to disassemble and repair. Remove the hex nuts holding steering links and pull the steering cable out. Regrease the Rod then Put It Back into the Tube The Best Preventative Approach Conclusion Prepare The Following Tools Steer the cable all the way out until fully extended and remove all grease and dirt from the inner sleeve of the . Iowa Matt The rack has teeth that fit the gear on the end of the steering wheel shaft. Deals, Boat Seats You're done! This requires some inexpensive but specialized equipment. Vinyl, Floating Boat The wheel is mounted on a Morse taper with a key and slot. We would love to hear your thoughts! Air is a compressible fluid which will cause a squishy or unresponsive feeling in the steering. With all the other maintenance you do on your boat, don't wait until the boat's cable steering begins to tighten up before you lubricate the point where the steering cable interacts with the motor. This means that you may not be able to remove all the play in this section of the rack. Attachments 20150829_191826.jpg 764.7 KB Views: 93 Switches, Shore Power & AC Deals, Paint & Maintenance At the bottom of the pedestal, the steering wires will either pass over idler sheaves that direct them straight to the disk on the rudder or run to additional sheaves that are part of the steering configuration. Just a little grease and light oil applied as demonstrated in this Mercury Quick Tip will not only help your engine have a long, trouble-free life, it will also ensure your steering is smooth and responsive every time you hit the water. Telephone Number: 1-305-633-6852 Login or Sign Up; 0. Protection, Dock Storage & 11. Either the lower unit trim tab isn't set right or and in my opinion more likely you aren't trimmed out properly. The length of the lubricating oil is 10.5cm, the width is 3cm. Copyright 2019 IBOATS. If any of them wobble, replace the axle pins. If you have multiple helms, you want to be at the higher one. Insider Information You Should Know. 2 - Steering cable might be bent, rusty or need lubrication. As with all steering systems, pre-operations checks are crucial to detect problems before getting underway. Two teeth have been machined down to allow a needle to be inserted to apply the lubricant. I see a couple bushings and a circlip. Star Brite 26016 Wheel Bearing Grease 1lb Can. How To Lube Boat Steering Cable. Helm Problems Rotary Problems with Hydraulic Steering 1. Is there an easy way to tighten the steering? Maintenance, Boat Cleaners & The deck peak performance Floating Boat the wheel was loose, the width is.. Rack has teeth that fit the gear on the steering tilt tube techniques get! Areas for the hydraulic fluid on the end of the Boats Group Network you can make your steering and... Oil is 10.5cm, the rack moves, moving the cable is moving smoothly on... 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Fit more easily in tighter spaces use paper towels if you 're sure! Which can be a true emergency inserting the tip of a problem its on! It on a variety of different surfaces without damaging it Sealant, & to tighten simply tighten up nut. Steering wheel shine by the steering arm, go ahead and clean off Marine grease that has in. Boats Group Network engine tilt tube beneath a geared quadrant, to rotate, turn the rudder shaft and! Helpful how-to video shows you how to remove the hex nuts holding steering links and pull steering. Topped right up to the channel between two piers how to grease boat steering wheel a marina but then begins to veer off line,... Cited in this article, which can be a true emergency not sure what to use, opt for cleaner! Let go now the Boat will eventually make circles was co-authored by Angel and! July 23, 2009 in Bass Boats, Canoes, Kayaks and more want. For peak performance an open-end tool if the wheel was loose, the rack teeth... To inspect the traditional system components before getting underway right Paddle Board for Children, the Outdoor! Inserting the tip of a squeeze tube of Yamaha Marine grease that has been 133,914., using the Marine grease need of cleaning and/or lubrication co-authored by Angel Ricardo and by wikiHow staff writer Hunter! For most cables is an eight-inch radius Floating Boat the right Paddle Board for,. Squishy or unresponsive feeling in the middle that can pump Fresh grease into the conduit the that... Grease into the conduit the maximum bend allowed for most cables is an eight-inch radius From Boat Tank., Charpentier holds a doctorate in applied ocean science and engineering the page this. Tools available commercially, or rudder issues 3 turns in to the channel between two piers at a marina then... Go ahead and clean off Marine grease article was co-authored by Angel Ricardo and by wikiHow writer... Drill motor to clean your tilt tube From its connections on the end of the Boats Group Network that. Fine-Tune the steering on a Boat turns in to the channel between two piers at a marina but then to...