How does outboard steering cable work?
The helm is responsible for converting the rotating motion of the steering wheel into a push-pull action on the cable. This cable directs the rudder to move left or right to steer the boat in the skipper’s desired direction. Most helms are rotary and use gears to move the rudder.
Are steering cables universal?
Generally, all other engines and controls use a “universal” 3300/33 type control cable. Universal cables have 10-32 threaded ends and often require extra hardware to connect to the engine and control. Contact the engine manufacturer if you need details on the hookup.
Where does the cable go in a steering wheel?
The cable passes through the motor attachment plate, then heads around the opposite rear corner pulley, which also has a spring tether mount, then back forward around one more pulley which redirects it back to the steering drum where the end terminates after a wrap or two around the drum.
How are corner pulleys used in a steering system?
With any cable system, the diameter of the steering drum and number of wraps the cable makes around it determines both how fast and how far the motor can turn. The corner pulleys being sprung mounted keep the cable tight at all times, thus preventing it from slipping off the pulleys at any point.
Is the steering wheel on the same side on both boats?
The steering wheel is on different sides on either of my boats, but the layout is the same only in a mirror image.
How often should a steering wheel cable be replaced?
For specific tips and tricks in dealing with your system, be sure to check out some of the maintenance guidelines from Edson Marine, a globally respected manufacturer of yacht steering systems since the mid-1800’s. A cable system should be serviced every 2-3 years and the cables be replaced every 5.
The cable passes through the motor attachment plate, then heads around the opposite rear corner pulley, which also has a spring tether mount, then back forward around one more pulley which redirects it back to the steering drum where the end terminates after a wrap or two around the drum.
How to clean the steering cable on a West Marine car?
1 Remove the steering cable from the tilt tube 2 Clean the tilt tube inside diameter thoroughly 3 Remove corrosion in the tilt tube with a wire brush. 4 Lubricate the tilt tube with a good water-resistant grease 5 Scour the steering cable telescopic ram with a brass wire brush and wipe until clean
What’s the best way to wrap a steering wheel?
* Wear rubber-faced work gloves; the increase in grip makes for a tight wrap. Wetting the line will make it shrink-to-fit, which also helps. This is key if knots are not used; it’s got to be tight. But don’t get every turn tight; lay on 6 loose turns and then grab with the gloves and twist. Hold what you’ve got with one hand and repeat.
How does a mechanical steering system work on a boat?
Mechanical steering systemsachieve good handling performance and provide safe operation for smaller powerboats (up to 34′). They consist of a wheel, helm, push-pull cables and connection kits—hardware that allows you to connect your steering system to your boat’s I/O or outboard engine.