Steering problems, cable, outboard

[eric80]

Hi I"m having steering issues and not sure where to look for guidance. Since i'm a member here i thought i'd at least start here even though it's a motor forum.

My 2003 16' Boston Whaler Ventura with a merc EFI 115hp was stiff to steer last summer.
Boats clean low hours and well looked after.

Last fall I re-greased the steering rod where it attaches to the motor and all worked fine.

kept it in heated under ground all winter. Today went for a quick first of the season rip to make sure all was working.
Right off the trailer no steering.

undid the rod at the motor slides fine.
Up at the helm if i wiggle the wheel I can feel the cable inside the outer shell moving. I get some light dinging from the helm gear box (attached to the wheel behind the dash).
If I try to move the wheel more i get some what sounds like gear clunk.

Pulled it out and she's in my driveway not happy.

my questions

the gear box or what ever it is called says don't take apart. Last fall one of my staff took our Honda helm apart not problem.....should I attempt? just saying.

If I shouldn't take it apart might it be repairable?

If it's not repairable i'll have to look into what a new ones will cost and if i'm going to do that maybe I should upgrade and buy hydraulic steering. Pricey but in this sport boat as is with cable steering the wheel is stiff, always has been.

If hydraulic what are the suggestions for manufactures?

Thanks for reading, i look forward to your comments and or suggestions

cheers
Eric

 

[haventaclue]

Sounds like something has gone awry in the helm.Could be missing a tooth or two on the worm drive.That's what I call it as I haven't a clue as to the correct term.So as it is you are going to need to replace it anyway,so you have nothing to lose by opening it up.Will it be repairable,doubt it,but that's my opinion based on pulling one apart a few years ago,just to see how it works.Maybe you might get away with greasing it up.You never know
I would love a hydraulic steering,but my pockets aren't deep enough

 

[makomark]

I would just go with the hydraulic - you will never regret it as long as it is installed properly...

 

[Evinrudemen]

Here hydraulic steering systems are also so expensive, about 5x price, when compare mechanical. So my wallet ask me to stay mechanical. Couple years ago i assembled new mechanical steering system to my boat, and it is just really nice to use, light and no slack. Also price was wallet-friendly.