Play in steering

[Towman066]

I have a 1975 trojan 25ft. I have a problem with to much play in the steering is there anyway to tighten it up. Any information than can help with this problem.. I have cable steering. Thank you.

[prowlersfish]

That's due to prop rotation . While some have gone to larger rudders on the F25 & 26 for improved low speed handling it would do much for reverse .

[rickalan35]

Prowler, I wonder if Towman meant that his cable steering was floppy and thus meant he has to turn the wheel for a short distance, before it actually has any effect on the rudder............ or am I being too darn black and white again (as accused by my wife)

[Jimmy]

If the steering is VERY loose and the wheel is able to go 10-20 degrees with no resistance, you issue is in the helm. Loose rack/gear assy. (If that is what you have). If not, check the cable itself and look for bulges or areas the cable can bend vs push or pull. Lastly, check clamps to make sure the cable is not sliding or the actual cable housing did not separate from the molded end. Future captains (kids). Make great helpers. Tell them to drive the boat while you look for the issue (docked with engine off off course). Get it fixed! Boats don't heal... And it will potentially fail at the worst time.

Hope this helps.

[prowlersfish]

Opps I posted the answer to another post not this one .getting old

[larryeddington]

someone once me advised me on this site that a very hard to steer situation will occur when the tabs are set so you have a serious bow down condition. It tends to go one way and then over correct the other. Bow walking is the term I think?

[prowlersfish]

I call it Bow steer when the boat tries to steer it self at speed

[bjanakos]

The bow ALWAYS follow the stern... The stern does not always follow the bow...