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How to Fix a Boat's Cable Steering

Cable-controlled steering is one of the most popular types of boat steering systems, and the most popular type of cable steering is called pedestal steering. Without proper maintenance, the steering system becomes tight and steering becomes impossible. Though any and all steering cables will eventually need to be replaced and most steering problems can be avoided with regular lubrication of all sheave bearings, there is an extensive annual maintenance process for fixing tight steering and preventing all-out steering failure.

Things You'll Need

Tape
Razor knife
Winch grease
30W oil
Paper towel

Instructions

- 1
  Stick three long strips of tape to the pedestal's binnacle, vertically and evenly spaced from the middle of the compass dome to the middle of the compass housing. Slit the tape where the dome meets the housing to ensure perfect realignment when the parts are reassembled.
- 2
  Unscrew both compass parts and remove them from the pedestal.
- 3
  Remove the engine control housing (only if it is inside the pedestal) by carefully removing the cotter pins from the clevises.
- 4
  Spin the wheel and apply winch grease through the holes on the bearing housing.
- 5
  Oil the sprocket and chain with 30W.
- 6
  Check the chain and wire connections. Make sure no cotter pins are missing from the master links or clevises.
- 7
  Release the locknut and loosen the cable. If the sheaves are unstable as you rotate them, replace the axle pins.
- 8
  Squirt 30W oil onto a paper towel. Slide the oiled towel up and down the cable thoroughly.
- 9
  Lock the wheel and adjust the cable's tension. Tighten the nut on the take-up eye just until the quadrant is immovable by hand.
- 10
  Replace all removed parts.

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