Play in Steering

[Jesse1]

Took the boat out today for the first time of the season. I noticed more slop in the steering than what I normally have. Is there any adjustment that can be made or is replacement of the steering cable necessary?

Most of the play seems to be at the steering wheel. The bolts holding the rack and pinion together are tight. There doesn't seem to be much slack at the rudder when I move it.

[skinautique]

RE: Play in Steering

You can check the bolt that connects the cable to the tiller arm and make sure the bolts are tight that hold the rudder in. You can also add more torque to the rudder via the trim tab.

[Jesse1]

RE: Play in Steering

I'll try moving the trim tab a little. The steering is a little light going straight so that might solve the problem.

What's with the post count? This wasn't my first post!

[NautiqueJeff]

Re: RE: Play in Steering

What's with the post count? This wasn't my first post!

That was a known issue when we moved over to our new server in February. If you know how many posts you had, I'll be glad to update the number for you.

[Jesse1]

RE: Re: RE: Play in Steering

Well, I don't have the adjustable trim tab. It's just a plastic trim tab attached by stainless screws. I guess I can get another one in a different degree. For now, I'll check the bolts holding the rudder and linkage.

[skinautique]

RE: Re: RE: Play in Steering

that is adjustable tab we are talking about. loosen the two screws and give it just a little bit of an offset (it doesn't take much) Make sure you get the screws tightened up good!

[TwinTip]

RE: Re: RE: Play in Steering

Skinautique. Isn't that trim tab to adjust the steering if the boat is pulling in one direction or another? Or does it also accomplish adding more torque? I have heard that it makes the steering tighter but the manual suggests it is to adjust the pull of the boat and make it straight.

[skinautique]

Play in Steering

torque and pulling in one direction or another is essentially doing the same thing. If it pulls too much, there is too much torque set in the tab (pushed to one side or the other too far) and if there is a "loose" feeling in the steering, there isn't enough torque in the wheel.

[Jesse1]

Re: RE: Re: RE: Play in Steering

that is adjustable tab we are talking about. loosen the two screws and give it just a little bit of an offset (it doesn't take m
uch) Make sure you get the screws tightened up good!

Okay, I see what you mean. I loosened up the screws and moved the tab farther to the left, looking at the rudder from the rear. It was already offset in that direction so I increased it more.

[skinautique]

RE: Re: RE: Re: RE: Play in Steering

Just go a little bit at a time. It is easy enough to adjust. A little movement makes a BIG difference!