Lubing the Steering Cable?????

Steelerguy · Addict Joined: 12 Jan 2003 Posts: 518

So the stearing is getting a bit tough on my direct drive. Ive greased the fitting down by the rudder, but do not see any fittings up near the steering wheel its self. Any ideas on how to lube the cable or the actual steering box????

George · Addict Joined: 12 Jan 2003 Posts: 552 City: Chattanooga

We were wondering the same thing but found out that if is it the teleflex steering there isn't a way to lub it. it could be your rudder is bent a little or just isn't fitting right.

Steelerguy · Addict Joined: 12 Jan 2003 Posts: 518

I think it is the teleflex thing you said... under the dash is an antena type thing that has a cover on it.... it comes off and looks like some sort of flexable mechanical gagit.... Im gonna lube that thing up good.... Sorry for the lack of discription. easier to just take a pic.

gusthecat · Outlaw Joined: 28 May 2003 Posts: 183

Don't use grease, it solidifies over time (making your situation worse). You can use any normal motor oil for lubing your steering cable, but in my experience, by the time it's stiff (& doesn't loosen up after turning it back & forth a few times) it needs to be replaced.

Wake upPp · Soul Rider Joined: 11 Feb 2003 Posts: 338 City: NOR-CAL

not if u use the right kind of grease. and oil is about worthless on any kind of steering gear because it is too thin to stay in place. Steelerguy get some white grease in a tub and an acid brush and take the cover off and lube it up. if it is still hard it's time to replace the cable. steering cables are only good for 6 or 8 years.

Jack V · Outlaw Joined: 19 Feb 2003 Posts: 207

how old is the cable? You may have to replace that. Otherwise you can grease the rudder itself. Those are your main two options. The only other problem could come from you bending a rudder. Since you described the rotary steering system, let me give you some advice. DO NOT disassemble the helm. Remove the one top bolt on it only.

C-Stone · Posted: Jun 24, 2003 10:06 pm Post subject:

It is your cable and all the grease in the world will not help now. Spend the 150.00 for a new one and it should take a mechanic 2 or less hours. Why not disassemble the helm???Greaseing the rudder doesnt help either. Grease will just make a big mess for the mechanic and get all over the boat.

CheerokeeWake · Criminal Joined: 27 Feb 2003 Posts: 69 City: Nashville

I have a 2000 Centurion, and it is much more diffucult to steer than my buddy's 85 Natuique, is this normal, or do i have a problem?

C-Stone · Posted: Jun 25, 2003 8:54 pm Post subject:

every boat will steer different... If you feel your boat getting harder to steer is when you will start to have a problem... The number 1 reason is.... look at your cable is it on the floor or close??? and how far is the cable from the bilge floor at the rudder.... if you get water in your bilge(as most of us) your cable is at risk..