I know it was cold this winter, but come on . . . I got the boat out this weekend, she started right up, but the steering is frozen - wouldn't move at all. I greased it well when winterized and again today, but still nothing... The engine is a 2002 125 Merc outboard.
I've disconnected the steering rod and the engine turns effortlessly.
I also disconnected the aluminum steering nut (not sure what it's called). When disconnected, I can turn the weel and the cable will move easily and smoothly. So I believe the cable is fine.
Removed the large nut on the starboard side, the other side was stuck. I'm relatively sure the steering ram is the problem (I think). I couldn't get it to budge. Saturated it with PB Blaster and cleaned it as best as I could. Tried some light tapping with a rubber mallet. Finally, tried the torch, but not too much - didn't want to melt anything.
I'm taking the PB Blaster route right now and letting it sit overnight. Any other tips on how to loosen the steering ram? I'll try and get a picture up tomorrow. Hopefully this makes sense...
Many thanks,
Rich
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