Prime Time II
New member
Hi Folks, New to this forum. I need help tracking down excess play in helm. It is a rack and pinion on a 1988 Thompson 24' with Mercruiser 260hp. There is a pump in corner that sits on top of a plastic reservoir of oil and a piston actuator. The auto type power steering pump is on front of engine and fluid is cooled through a cooler then goes to the pistons. I just got the boat and don't know much history. I do know the marina mechanic recently installed a top end (used) on the Alpha drive. Don't know if he looked at the arm. My question is the procedure to check things through the process of elimination to find specific problem. I estimate the play from center helm is 4" left to 4"right of the wheel - too much to keep a straight course. I have some pics. but don't know how to post them. Any help is always appreciated. TU Jim
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