www.iFourWinns.com

2006 Horizon 180 Merc.
This looks excessive to me in this short video of the steering being turned left and right. Any tips to adjust this?
Thank you in advance!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/SCg6tr9FQbnNcBMc9

The movement you are seeing is normal. The movement you are seeing is the valve portion of the power steering system that re-directs power steering fluid to assist in turning the steering wheel.

_________________
Surface Interval: A scuba diving term for that time between dives to relax and prepare for life's next great adventure.

Current boat: '02 FW 268 Vista
Previous boat: '95 FW 190 Horizon

That much movement is normal? Other opinions feel it is excessive and can be adjusted. I was wondering if perhaps the cable can be adjusted tighter then because together with the built in play with this valve 'design', it is ridiculous trying to keep a skier going in a straight line.

That much movement is normal? Other opinions feel it is excessive and can be adjusted. I was wondering if perhaps the cable can be adjusted tighter then because together with the built in play with this valve 'design', it is ridiculous trying to keep a skier going in a straight line.

Yes, I believe that is normal for the power steering actuator. You may also look at the helm steering wheel and system. There may be additional play in the Helm steering unit or the cable. If you have a tilt steering wheel, another recommendation is to pull the boot back toward the steering wheel and look at the universal joint for the tilt mechanism. The '95 190 Horizon had that u-joint come loose to the point that the steering was sloppy and even locked up occasionally. Hope this Helps.

_________________
Surface Interval: A scuba diving term for that time between dives to relax and prepare for life's next great adventure.

Current boat: '02 FW 268 Vista
Previous boat: '95 FW 190 Horizon

OK I'll check that out. Thanks for the tips!

So this does have the tilt steering and when I look at the u-joint there is play there too. Is there a fix here or does a new u-joint help? I can't see anything unusual with it other than excessive play which all adds up..

I'm not sure if yours is the same or similar to the '95 190 I had, but I was able to tighten the screw that held the two sides of the u-joint onto the steering wheel shaft. At one point I did disassemble that u-joint and file or grind some areas to make sure the u-joint would tighten on the steering shaft. Mine got loose enough one time that it did cause the steering to lock up. That was at idle, but it could have been a lot more serious.

_________________
Surface Interval: A scuba diving term for that time between dives to relax and prepare for life's next great adventure.

Current boat: '02 FW 268 Vista
Previous boat: '95 FW 190 Horizon