F-26 steering assembly replacement

[VIK]

Hello all,
First time posting but many hours of reading. I am a new owner of a 77 f-26.
What started with a cleaning,has now turned into pretty much a total refit.
Original steering set up has failed and I purchased a new rack set up.however it is a back mount system.has anyone replaced this set up with success? The original mounted to the bulkhead wall.

[Paul]

Hi Vik,

Welcome aboard. In my '78, the rack is installed vertically and is fastened to the back side of the helm enclosure. This ensures that the shaft distance to the wheel is correct. If mounting the rack to the bulkhead behind the helm enclosure you'll probably require shim blocks to space it correctly, not the preferred method.

Hope this helps,

[VIK]

Thanks for your input Paul.
I think I might need to beef up the helm in that area. It seems a little weak to mount an assembly at this time.

Leif

[BeaconMarineBob]

Vic,
Could you help us out by telling us what Steering Rack you brought to replace the rack and cable on your F 26.

Also did you need to change the helm as well or were you able to use the old helm with the new rack.

If you have any pictures of what you did that would help as well.

We are trying to help a new owner of a F 26 with a broken rack and cable.

If it would help you can call us or text us at 609 713 4602

If any one else has replace the rack and cable on a F 26 your any info would be a great help.

Bob Cushman

[MattSC]

I replaced my steering rack back in 1996 with a teleflex no feedback system, model SS14715. I checked online and it is still available. It is mostly used for outboards, however it works really well on my F-26. I did have to modify my helm as the new unit (SS14715) was larger in diameter than the original. I used 5/4" teak for the main support, the rack is mounted vertically to this board, not the bulkhead. I had to add a second board as a spacer to shim it out, as the shaft is longer than the original system. I can't remember the exact dimensions of the boards off the top of my head. I also had to cut the access panel directly below the mounting board. Those were the only modifications I can remember doing. I did not have to modify anything on the piston end, it bolted up fine. Below is a photo of my helm post installation. If you need any measurements or additional photos let me know, I will be down on the boat this weekend.

Matt