Steering is hard on my my boat.?

Question

there appears to be sticky dry grease on the steering rod near the out board.

Answer 1

Best answer to bj, he's bang on. Steering is something you don't want to take chances with. If your boat is a performance boat or your engine is bigger than 150hp you might want to consider hydraulic steering. Either way I'd have a back up tiller in case of emergency.

Answer 2

First check to see that the motor is turning freely. It can sometimes stick if not greased. Look at the base and find out where the grease fitting is and grease it. try to unhook the steering cable from the motor to identify what is sticking. Some cables are sealed and not able to lubricate. Check the end of the cable for a place to lubricate cable. Spray with lubricant if possible to clean any hard/dry grease. Check also the steering wheel for a lubrication point or hydraulic oil fill.

Answer 3

clean  and degrease then regrease all fittings

Answer 4

There should be grease near the steering rod.  How long has it been since you have greased all the fittings?  Your Steering tube may need to be honed.  To check this take the steering cable, or cables if dual cable steering, out of the steering tube on the motor.  Then turn your steering wheel.  if the cable or cables move freely then the steering tube just needs honed out to get the rust out.  If it or they do not move freely then the cable or cables need replaced.