2000 Ski Natique Steering Cable Replacement

[marksa1458@yahoo.com]

Looking to replace the steering cable on a 2000 ski natique with the bench seat gas tank. (Like below)



Have only found a couple of forum posts on this model replacement and they vary somewhat. In pulling the bench seat, it appears that the gas tank will need to be removed to access the rudder. Is there any way to do it with the gas tank in place? Doesn't appear to be enough room to turn a wrench and the 3 access holes through the tank don't line up with the cable.

[Michael Crouse]

I have done it on my 2000 Ski Nautique.
-I pull the combing pad on the driver side
-The engine cover and the bench over the gas tank come out.
-You will need to disconnect the fuel fill and vent lines.
-The fuel line and return lines need to be disconnected too.
-Loosen and remove the bracket that hold the down.
Once the fuel tank is loosened I slide it forward enough so I can get to the steering. You can service your rudder too while back there.

-The kick boards at the drivers knee needs to be be removed.
-The kick board at the drivers feet needs to be loosened, but it has the PME box and power switch on it so I just twist it down for access to the steering cable.
-Tie a string or some kind of fish tape to the end of the cable at the back.I use para cord.
-Remove all the zip ties holding it to the stringer (3-4)
-Disconnect it from the helm (4 bolts)
Fishing it out and fishing the new one in can be done by your self, but having a help pull or push on the cable while your on the other end guiding helps a lot.

Once you have it in place I replace the zip ties that I cut. I like to inspect the fuel lines and replace those if they are worn anywhere.
Reverse the above and next time you go out to the lake take a 3/4 socket with you to adjust your steering wheel to straight, because it will likely be off.
It’s a lot of work the first time, but it’s vary doable especially if you have a helper who can hand you things and help carry stuff.

[roger2700]

2000 SN Closed Bow. I just did mine in April23. Ditto all above from M Crouse except I did not have to remove kick boards. One person was ok to remove by dragging cable and fishtape but definitely 2 people helped when installing for me as it would hang up in places. Steers like new now, well worth doing!
Note: I bought a Sierra/Dometic cable in winter 2022/23 which turned out to be part of recall. Make sure if you buy cable esp locally that they do not have any of the recall cables still in stock. Here is notice with how to identify those made from 7/7/22 thru 3/1/2023.
https://catalog.sierraparts.com/stat...D.9805e593.pdf

[marksa1458@yahoo.com]

much appreciated both of you!