Play on new steering cable

Chipmunk · 30 July 2023, 18:06

I have just replaced the steering cable and helm on my Tornado 5.4 RIB. On the first use of the boat after replacing the cable, I noticed a lot of play on the steering. On closer inspection I found that the rod that goes through the steering tube has about 1 cm of play with respect to the steering cable. In other words - holding the cable still, I can move the steering rod (that is integrated /attached / part of the steering cable) in and out about 1 cm giving about 30 degrees of play on the steering. Surely this can’t be right? It’s a brand new cable. Anything I’m missing or should do before I return the cable as defective? I have attached a photo of the rod I’m referring to (not the engine steering linkage).

beamishken · 30 July 2023, 21:22

Sounds like the lock nut on the cable isnt run right down to clamp the outer cable tight

Chipmunk · 30 July 2023, 22:37

Quote:

Originally Posted by beamishken

Sounds like the lock nut on the cable isnt run right down to clamp the outer cable tight

No it’s fully tight - see attached photo. Not sure how that would remove the play I’ve described though?

beamishken · 31 July 2023, 23:58

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chipmunk

No it’s fully tight - see attached photo. Not sure how that would remove the play I’ve described though?

If the lock nut isnt tight the cable would move in & out as you describe. That cable looks old is that a picture of your "new" cable? If the play isnt at the engine end the problem must lie at the helm end unless the cable is faulty & the end rod isnt crimped onto the cable as it should be

Limecc · 01 August 2023, 06:16

Cables go stiff or snap, they don't cause play. On mine it was eliminated by getting rid of the old steering helm and it was a perfect opportunity to upgrade to no feedback steering.

Chipmunk · 01 August 2023, 08:28

Quote:

Originally Posted by Limecc

Cables go stiff or snap, they don't cause play. On mine it was eliminated by getting rid of the old steering helm and it was a perfect opportunity to upgrade to no feedback steering.

I have the exact same no feedback Seastar helm you have in your picture. My last cable broke at the point where the steering rod joins the cable. Interestingly, it didn’t come away completely - it just ended up with 6 inches of free movement. I think this cable has done the same thing which makes me wonder if the motor is too powerful for it. I checked yesterday and it’s rated 50-100hp whereas I have a 115hp Johnson 2S - which is very lively. Any thoughts on this?

Limecc · 01 August 2023, 08:37

More likely a cable routing thing. Previous owner of mine moved the exit hole by 2" to get a better alignment. Was probably chafing. Not sure how yours can snap so soon if it's brand new? Must be the helm.

Chipmunk · 01 August 2023, 08:40

Quote:

Originally Posted by Limecc

More likely a cable routing thing.

Do you think the routing might be putting too much strain on the cable?

beamishken · 01 August 2023, 08:47

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chipmunk

Do you think the routing might be putting too much strain on the cable?

Certainly worth checking for tight bends etc its unusual for a new cable to fail like that, even though your slightly over the rating it shouldnt fail like that. If the cable has failed then maybe time to upgrade to a 150hp system, doesnt need to be hydraulic as you can get cables rated to 150hp. Be careful if you do go hydraulic as some of the cheaper hydraulic systems are pretty poor