Push Pull Steering

billbone · #1 03-06-2012

I have a push pull steering system by Yacht Specialties on a '79 Catalina. The steering wheel has quite a bit of play/slack in it - about two inches before you can feel the tension and move the rudder (transom mounted). Is this normal, or is there an adjustment to tighten the slack?
Does anybody know?

johnnyquest37 · #2 03-06-2012

Attached is the Edson manual for wheel steering systems: http://www.edsonmarine.com/support/P...eringGuide.pdf

On my boat, the steering cables terminate on adjustable bolts. Tighten the bolts to take out the slack. Just make sure to tighten both bolts equally or the wheel won't be centered anymore.

billbone · #3 03-06-2012

Thanks for replying. You have a single cable push-pull too?
Where are those bolts, inside the pedestal?

Faster · #4 03-06-2012

Sounds like JQ37 is describing typical chain and cable steering rather than what you seem to have. Is this on a C 250?

If the tiller end of the cable doesn't move right away I suspect the problem will be within the pedestal at the drive end - but I haven't been able to find any drawings on line.. they are out of business.

johnnyquest37 · #5 03-06-2012

Correct - I have a chain and cable system, but the link has the best pictures I've seen of various combinations, so perhaps you can find something analogous. The bolts I described are in the quadrant and anchor the wire rope.

billbone · #6 03-07-2012

Thanks guys. I couldn't find any detailed images of my setup either. When I looked down into the pedestal I think I could see the two bolts. I'll get in there and see if I can make an adjustment. I'll let you know how it works out!

billbone · #7 03-07-2012

By the way, this is a '79 Cat 25.