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Boat Repair/i/o steering play

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Expert: Jeff Grigg - 1/16/2008


Question
hey, i have a 99 26'seamaster w/a  with an merc 350/alpha 1 setup. For some reason or another i have a good 2-3" of play in my steering wheel before the drive catches. so from steering to the left to right or opposite i get maybe 5 inches of nothing which makes manuvering into the channel a pain every time.. by the time you turn the wheel its already to late which make for very tight steering.. any ideas on how to tighten the steering up so i wont look like im dodging waves? thanks -Joe

Answer
Joe your best bet is to take the boat to a good servicing shop. You could have slop in the outdrive, gimbal housing or the bushings could be excessively worn.
Also check the power steering that it is working properly and full of steering fluid.
Have a helper hold the outdrive steady and turn the steering wheel. See if you have play there, if not reverse positions and hold the wheel still while pushing the drive back and forth, you will probably find the problem.
Jeff

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Jeff Grigg

Expertise

Can help with most any question related to outboards, high performance, hull repair, rigging, if it floats and uses a motor. From a 9.9 on a aluminum boat to DFI two strokes. Outboard motors are my specialty. I can help with some I/O questions as well. Ratings are the only way we know if we are helping. If you are pleased with the help, please rate us. 20% don't bother reading my answers! If you are not going to read the follow up then why ask? Keep in mind we do this at no charge and are not paid. We do it to help you!

Experience

32 years in the marine business. Own a service facility, in coastal South Carolina certified Master Tech by Johnson/Evinrude, certified Mercury/Force, Tohatsu/Nissan. Former technical director for DMI Pistons. 30 year racing career including 3 APBA Formula V National Championships

Organizations
AMTECH, APBA

Publications Written For
Boat & Motor Dealer, Car Classics, Custom Vans (tech articles), Miami News, powerboat racing column

Awards and Honors
Certified Master Technician Johnson/Evinrude

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