Loose Steering Advice

[macowneril2015]

I believe the steering system on my is stock and had some play so I attempted to tighten it. Now after the first sail of the year the wheel seems to be very loose and has substantial lateral movement. Is this something where I should attempt to just tighten it or do I need to replace the system? Any recommendations are appreciated here as this was an unexpected need this year.

[March]

In what ways is the system "loose"? How can the wheel have a "lateral movement?

Look at the steering cable which comes from the column/below deck/ into the cockpit. Turn the wheel. Does the cable respond? You should see where it is attached to the steering system in front of your engine (it's like a trapeze of steel tubes) and the cable is like a bicycle brake cable, with a metal insertion which is in plain view

If you move the wheel and nothing happens at the end of the cable, , the problem is with the cable and you will need to change it--or inspect here it attaches to the steering column. If the cable responds and you can see it moving in an out, the problem is with the "trapeze of tubes" that has come loose: replace the pins, put some bushings there. The third possible culpit may be the rudder fins themselves--there should be no noticeable wobbling in the rudder brackets.

[Mike54]

Hi,

In view of the increased play and lateral movement after your attempt to tighten your boat's steering system, it would be best to review the system to ensure that everything is correctly adjusted. Check for over-tightened components or misalignment.

Best Regards,

[macowneril2015]

In what ways is the system "loose"? How can the wheel have a "lateral movement?

Look at the steering cable which comes from the column/below deck/ into the cockpit. Turn the wheel. Does the cable respond? You should see where it is attached to the steering system in front of your engine (it's like a trapeze of steel tubes) and the cable is like a bicycle brake cable, with a metal insertion which is in plain view

If you move the wheel and nothing happens at the end of the cable, , the problem is with the cable and you will need to change it--or inspect here it attaches to the steering column. If the cable responds and you can see it moving in an out, the problem is with the "trapeze of tubes" that has come loose: replace the pins, put some bushings there. The third possible culpit may be the rudder fins themselves--there should be no noticeable wobbling in the rudder brackets.

There was looseness in the mount somehow, I was able to tighten it up. I still have play in the wheel where I turn the wheel and there is like a 1/16th of a turn before it moves. I think I will need to upgrade the system.