Stuck steering on 2005 Merc Optimax...?

Tyangelo · #1 06-28-2012, 08:52 PM

Had the boat since new, and just had a new impeller/pump kit put on a Tournement Marine, going off suggestions from other AO members. Got to the lake for the first time this year, and the steering is locked in the full left position somehow. Only can move the engine/steering wheel about .5". My gut tell me the cable is seized... But wouldn't the shop likely have caught this while test running the motor? If it is the cable, is it repairable, or am I better off just getting a new one?

billie · #2 06-28-2012, 10:10 PM

Likely the cable unless the motor pivot is stuck somehow. You can disconnect it to quickly check.

Cable is not fixable, get a new one. Just an FYI, they make salt water rated cables (at least when I replaced mine) and they are significantly better.

Easy to replace.

bowness · #3 06-28-2012, 10:18 PM

Once I cleaned my engine and cowling and in so doing took all the lub off the motor steering pivot. It just couldent move back and forth due to lack of lubrication.

Tyangelo · #4 06-29-2012, 08:06 AM

Seems like the cable/steering tube is sticky. Trying to clean/lube it up.

Shmag · #5 06-29-2012, 08:52 AM

I never hear of a steering cable seizing...not saying it doesnt happen but just seems odd for a 2005.

I know under the console or behind the steering wheel there is a linkage once you turn the wheel it slides the cable...i would check under that to make sure something isnt binding there. Maybe tilt the motor up all the way and try to turn it to see if something isnt binding there as well. Even when up grab the lower leg and try to jar it up and down a bit. And as mentioned i would probably disconnect the steering cable and see if you can at least turn the steering wheel.

Most boats i see trailered to the lake are centered...did you trailer it to the lake all the way to the left side or were you on water and turned it sharp left and it stuck there ???

I have an 06 opti and had to add steering oil last yr, but if i remember correctly it still turned.

Good luck

seahawkfisher · #6 06-30-2012, 09:16 AM

check out www.iboats.com
it'll be your best friend when it comes to boat stuff
cheers

Kim473 · #7 07-01-2012, 06:09 AM

I would check under or behind the stering wheel first. Found binding on mine once before. Check where the cables run also as it may have a sharp bend somewhere and that it causing the binding.

Shmag · #8 07-04-2012, 10:58 AM

Just curious....Did you fix the problem? if so what was it ?