Stiff steering

[JPG]

Hey there!
New to the Carver and boating world.
We just got our 1989 Montego 2557 in the water, and it runs very nice. I noticed the steering is a bit stiff. I feels the same engine running or not. I topped up the power steering fluid as it was a bit low. From what I have read, it could be a steering cable that is just old and worn out. I am wondering how I can narrow it down to the cable? If it is the cable, is there anything else I should replace while replacing the cable? Also, if anyone has a good place to look for parts online, that would be very helpful.

Thanks!

[SanJuanDreamer]

Is the steering really cable?
If the entire steering system was hydraulic, you could check the rudder glads as they could be too tight.

[JPG]

Hey,
It looks like a cable that goes to a rack system on the transom. It looks like the cable runs up the side of the hull to the steering wheel. There is also a grease fitting on the rack system that I greased as well.

[mjk1040]

Disconnect the cable from the steering ram and see if it turns free. See if there are grease fittings on the outdrive pivot points and grease too. Ram could be get worn out?

[Viper]

It's most typically a bad cable, contaminated hydraulic system, or a failing steering pump. As Mike suggested, remove the cable from the ram and test, the wheel should turn easily. If it doesn't the cable should be replaced. If you get any grinding at the wheel, you have a worn helm which won't help. Is there any hydraulic fluid in the bilge, and have you checked the ram for leaks? To check if you're getting any meaningful pressure out of the pump you'll need pressure gauges.

Is it Merc sterndrive, Volvo?

[JPG]

I am going to try removing the cable from the unit and test out the steering next weekend. It is a Merc drive.
I will keep you posted. Thanks!