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Steering problems
Posted: Thu Mar 18, 2004 10:05 am
by London Pride
Can anyone offer advice on best replacement for steering system for 1998 26X? Steering has deteriorated over the past year becoming jerky despite strip down and lubrication. This past weekend in stiff breezes, with heavy load on rudders, steering slipped repeatedly to the point of being unable to maintain control. Would appreciate information on manufacturer, model numbers, cable length, etc... and ease of installation.
Posted: Thu Mar 18, 2004 10:37 am
by craiglaforce
I think I bought a Teleflex Safe-T QC helm and cable system for my inside the cabin system. Looks like a good quality unit. Sounds like you have one of those defective helm gears on yours. The Teleflex web site will tell you how to measure the cable length. Probably 8 to 10 ft or something close to that . Mine came with a SS nut at the splashwell tube.
I think it is a pretty easy changeout. Recommend getting a steering wheel puller (that has the 3 adjustable fingers that you fit behind the steering wheel hub to pul the wheel). Then its just 3 bolts to remove the helm from the pedastal, unscrew the steering nut from the splashwell tube, undo the bolt attachment at the steering yoke bar and remove the old one. THen just follow the directions for the new installation.
Also, if the steering is difficult in higher winds, you might want to look at adjusting your mast rake to reduce the weather helm (assuming that the boat wants to head into the wind on gusts). This will make it more comfirtable to steer and you will go faster since the rudders will create less drag.