Tight steering and prop on 2001

[SkiNautique2001]

I finished my stereo upgrade this weekend on my '89 2001, and as I was in the boat listening to it, I noticed that the steering was super tight. The most obvious thing is the steering cable (I didn't have the time to check this right then), but I'm HOPING that there's a possibility that it will loosen up the first time out in the Spring. It was very loose whenever I laid it up for the winter. I got down out of my boat and took a look at the rudder to make sure that there was nothing obstructing the travel of it (box, etc. since it's stored in my garage), and I noticed that my prop wouldn't spin freely either. Is this something that I should worry about now, or should I wait 6 weeks until I take it out for its initial run of the year?
What have your experiences been with the steering? Any luck with it loosening up, or should I bite the bullet now and replace the cable? What would cause the prop shaft to lock up?

[M3Fan]

RE: Tight steering and prop on 2001

Steering will be tighter in the cold. Should loosen up come spring. If not, steering cable replacement. The prop shaft should offer slight resistence while turning. You should be able to turn it, but not easily, since the strut bearing is rubber and will give you some friction when dry. If you want some peace of mind, I suppose you could spray the strut down with the hose and see if the prop spins easily then. Sounds like you have nothing to worry about.

[SkiNautique2001]

RE: Tight steering and prop on 2001

M3Fan,
That's good news!

[Quinner]

I was told that if you turn your wheel periodically through the boats lay-up period it will help keep the cable properly lubricated and prevent it from tightening up? I have always done this and have never had to replace a steering cable.

[roadkingpuck]

SN 2001, I have had two 87 SN's. The steering and prop acted the same as yours during lay-up and functioned fine during the summer. We live in St.Paul, MN and stored boat in unheated pole barn.

[SkiNautique2001]

Thanks for the feedback guys. The steering is really tight right now, but I feel much better about it loosening in the Spring after reading your posts.

[krs0394]

I don't know, I have never had my steering cable REALLY tight and then have it loosen up. I guess if you had moisture inside the cable it could be frozen if temps are below 32. I say you need to check and see if you have grease zerks on either end of the cable and pump it full. If not I say new cable time -- not uncommon.