Tiller steer really stiff

[Buster162]

I have a 1981 Johnson 25 with very low hours. My problem is the tiller steer is really stiff and hard to turn. I was told there’s an adjustment screw? Or is this a cleaning issue? Motor has always been stored inside

 

[SuperT]

There is one or two places you can grease the shaft w/marine grease, and if it's still too tight back off the tension adjustment screw a tad

 

[kevinj]

I have a 1981 Johnson 25 with very low hours. My problem is the tiller steer is really stiff and hard to turn. I was told there’s an adjustment screw? Or is this a cleaning issue? Motor has always been stored inside

Have you ever greased the steering tube? It could just be dry, or possibly corroded. On the starboard side of the steering tube you should have a grease zerk. Pump in some water proof grease until you see it come out the top and/or bottom, then work the steering side to side to work it in.

 

[racerone]

And #73 is the screw to set steering friction.

 

[Buster162]

I have a 1981 Johnson 25 with very low hours. My problem is the tiller steer is really stiff and hard to turn. I was told there’s an adjustment screw? Or is this a cleaning issue? Motor has always been stored inside

And #73 is the screw to set steering friction.

Thank you I will give that a try! I tried taking the zerk out and cleaning with brake clean to clear any stiff grease, it helped but not enough. I will give this a try. Thanks again