Stiff Steering

[bobchris]

not really, it's just the shape of the rudder and it's tapper so to say one side is a little different than the other and I believe you have to file on the opposite side that is creating the harder steering. So if it's harder turning right then you file on the trailing edge of the rudder on the left. That's the vertical section of the rudder. On the new ones you will notice a black section towards the top of the rudder and that's how those are tunned.

think of the rudder like and airplane wing, where one side is arched more than the other, top vs. bottom in a wing, and it's that shape that causes the air to travel faster over the top section creating a low pressure zone. You get the same effect on a rudder traveling through water so to correct it they have to be matched so that it flows the same one both sides. It's a fine art that if you are going to do it then you have to file a little at a time otherwise you just switch which side turns easier.

[WylieNautique]

Just had the steering cable replaced on my 96 SN. Was very stiff while sitting on the trailer. A lot stiffer than I remember from last fall when used for last time. Anyway, had a new cable installed by Buxton Marine in Lewisville, TX. My Nautique is a 196. The cable was $155.25 and the labor was $180.00. Service manager says this is more of a age issue than a wear issue. Just my .02 to compare cost at your dealer or for what it is worth.

[SquamInboards]

I have never packed / greased a rudder port, how does one go about that? Or at least, inspecting the rudder packing / port for wear? We already have access to the rudder, it's just what to look for, etc....

[darrel409]

look for a zerk fitting to grease. if you want to inspect, drop the rudder, this is the time to grease if there is no zerk fitting. If you dont have a water intrusion problem at the rudder, the packing is more than likely fine.

[sperbet]

anyone know which steering cable for a 95 SS? Mine needs replaced. I had the dealer look at it while it was being serviced($200 + $500 in labor to replace). Needless to say I'm going to do it myself. I wanted to just order the cable from them so I could replace it myself and they told me they don't know which cable it is unless they actually pull it out (I find this extremely hard to believe). Do I need to remove the cable before ordering a new one so I know it is the right cable? Thanks....

[NautiqueJeff]

http://www.shopwhitelake.com/stcaallnafr11.html

[sperbet]

thanks Jeff!

[NautiqueJeff]

Don't forget to use the 10% PN discount if you order from White Lake.