How do I know if my steering hardware is bad?

Masterplan · **Joined:** Thu Dec 13, 2012 2:48 pm **Posts:** 15

2001 horizon 210 with a little play in the steering wheel with everything off but really sticks if left in one position while underway. Any idea where to start troubleshooting? Was it ever smooth and precise? I bought this boat used.

LVChris · **Posted:** Fri Feb 27, 2015 1:54 pm

Do you have a tilt steering wheel?

This happened to mine...

[url][/http://www.smwebhead.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=13093url]

ric · **Posted:** Fri Feb 27, 2015 2:18 pm

Most smaller boats like ours have mechanical steering via. a cable. Not exactly... exact. Some play is normal but it should never stick. Needs lube.

KLB41854 · **Posted:** Sat Feb 28, 2015 10:15 am

I have a 2000 210 Horizon. Has some play which is normal. But if its sticking then you should have it lubed.

LouC · **Posted:** Sat Feb 28, 2015 11:19 am

On my OMC Cobra the power steering actuator has a grease fitting that you are supposed to grease every 6 months. You are also supposed to grease the rod where it comes out of the ram. I've been doing both ever since I've had this boat and the steering is very smooth and takes hardly any effort.

Masterplan · **Joined:** Thu Dec 13, 2012 2:48 pm **Posts:** 15

So does mine have a grease fitting or should I just rub it on the chrome actuator?

LouC · **Posted:** Sat Feb 28, 2015 2:00 pm

Don't know what you have, Volvo or Merc?
In either case though, if you can grease the steering ram rod where it goes in to the cylinder and work it back and forth it should help. Because I'm in a salt water region and the boat sits on a salt water mooring all season I do it 2 x a year. And the best marine grease I have used is the blue OMC/Bombardier triple guard grease (sold at Evinrude dealers). Any good marine grease will do, however.
While you are at it check the fluid level in the p/s pump, and look for fluid leaks. Make sure the belt is tight.

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How do I know if my steering hardware is bad?

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