Stiff steering to left

[Bakes5]

For some reason my steering has stiffened up considerably when turning left. It moves smoothly when I am idling or stopped so I think the cables are OK. I am not talking about the inherent tendency to turn right. When I turn left, it is remarkably stiff. It was not like this a month ago.

Any ideas?

Thanks

Bakes

[zad0030]

Check and see if this bolt is tightened if you can.

The one with the crescent wrench on it..

[Bakes5]

ummmm....where might that bolt be?

[da.bell]

Its on the rudder end of the cable about a foot towards the bow.

[KonaKing]

Time to change your steering cable

[Jason B]

If it's been a few years since a new cable was installed it may be time for a new one. It's possible that only the side which slides when you turn left is rusted up, the portion affected by right turns may be fine (for now.) You'll need it soon anyway if it has been a while so you may as well start there.