2000 SN Stiff steering

Well it's only 0.002-0.003 per side and the rudder moves super smooth until the packing nut is tightened down. Not exactly sure how to check rudder straightness other than a straight edge and look for light but that's a pretty small gap that you'd only be able to see at the perfect angle. Even then, there's no real way to accurately measure it like you can with a driveshaft and a dial indicator.

I changed out my 95's last spring when I disconnected the cable the wheel seemed to turn ok. I had to change the helm unit because of the new rack side. Without the wheel on when turned by hand I was surprised that it was not smooth and seemed to bind. The lube in it and in the cable had dried out. I sprayed some lube into the helm unit and it was much better. Might be worth a try,but that alone won't help if it's pulling too.

How about a picture of it,I wonder if it's a replacement or the original?

I am convinced your issue is at the rudder and port... also use 3/16 packing... that is the correct size for your rudder!

See photo of rudder port and put zerk there!



The stock trim tab on your rudder will load steering wonderfully once you sort your rudder issue.

Good luck!

Waternut wrote: So even though there is almost 1/2" of clearance, you just squash 3/16" packing?

worth a shot. $15, worst case it'll leak a lot, pull boat out and put 1/4" back in there.

If you have the same port I have in my 1999SN... go 3/16" (three wraps). Go with the goretex it is like $6 for a foot and I think that is all you need.

Then set that rudder to about 1/16 or 1/8th at most and you will be set!!!

or..

So when you used the proper packing, greased the correct area, and properly set your rudder trim tab... is she steering like a dream now?