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Topic Title: 55' Steering Cable
Topic Summary: Mine is locked up
Created On: 09/03/2009 05:53:52 AM
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 09/03/2009 05:53:52 AM
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desimulacra
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Posts: 113
Joined: 06/11/2007

I need advice on my steering cable. Finally got all my engine problems worked out (I think) and found out during the long fix my steering cable is froze up. I pulled it out and it does have a grease fitting on one end.
Questions:
1) Is this fixable? Someone told me that I need to use a special grease? and if I grease the cable it might break free?
2) Where can I get a new cable?

Mark

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1977 58' Aluminum Sumerset
Kentucky Lake
 09/03/2009 06:42:54 AM
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RCPILOT
Admiral

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How old id the boat? Does it have a fly bridge? I would try to take it loose at the stern, then try to locate the bind. See if you can't work it thru, without being attached to the steering gear. If it's the cable I'm thinking of, it will look like a normal cable with a hardened spring wrapped around it. (worm gear) It could just need grease, but more likely is in need of replacement depending on age. Mine was a "Teleflex Big T" that was 50' long, one piece with two sheath's. Install went from engine compartment forward with the second sheath removed, just cable, feed into the helm head, then out the other side, into the second sheath, then the remainder into the bridge helm and out. Note, that if this i the same cable, it can be ordered by any Teleflex dealer, however you have to be sure about length, because, what you order, is about $800 AND non refundable if wrong. It also takes about 4 weeks to get. If you have to order one, look at the ends of the plastic sheathing, by the nut. There should be a number stamped in white somewhere on the cable sheathing, give them that number. If not, have the dealer help measure. Sorry to be so long winded, good luck.
 09/03/2009 07:12:23 AM
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desimulacra
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No fly bridge. I pulled the cable and it is def. froze up outta a 77 year model. I think it got water in it also. I'll look for numbers in a bit. $800 ouch.

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1977 58' Aluminum Sumerset
Kentucky Lake
 09/03/2009 09:47:20 AM
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OLD HOUSEBOATER
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http://www.houseboatingworld.c...12242-Cable-oiler.html

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OLD HOUSEBOATER
 09/03/2009 11:59:36 AM
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RCPILOT
Admiral

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Thanks OHB, I was going to mention that.
 09/03/2009 04:07:46 PM
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Forkliftking
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Before you pull the cable out, fasten a 1/4" nylon rope to the end of the cable. You will need this to pull in the new cable.
 09/05/2009 08:44:50 PM
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Ej
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I would check out and evaluate the rest of the system if the inexpensive remedies fail to work. Then I would go with Hydraulic or electric but be prepared to pay upfront for these.

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 09/05/2009 10:59:46 PM
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FranticallyRelaxing
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Where's the thread on oiling cables?

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1988 SkipperLiner 53x14
1995 Tracker Party Cruiser 32 *for sale*
2003 Chaparral 260 SSI
2000 Allegro Bus 40' DP
 09/06/2009 10:57:17 AM
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OLD HOUSEBOATER
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Four posts up.

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OLD HOUSEBOATER
 09/21/2009 06:45:31 AM
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desimulacra
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Update
Thanks for the info everyone, esp. on the oiler. I had to oil thru the zerk fitting and clamp a hole over the near end to force oil the other way. It all seemed to work.....but... I guess my situation was too sever as my cable is still froze up. I will be looking at my options this week. New cable or switch to hydraulic. I'll keep you posted.

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1977 58' Aluminum Sumerset
Kentucky Lake
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