Steering and engine temp questions

[virtualmiller1]

I have a couple of questions about my boat that I'm hoping someone can shed some light on. ('99 Pre2050 WT, carb Mercruiser, ~230hrs.)

1. The steering has suddenly gotten stiff intermittently. At certain points while turning the wheel it suddenly locks. If I rotate the wheel in the opposite direction, and then back, it unlocks. Is this a cable issue, or a problem with the helm, or something else?

2. Is it normal for the engine (water)temp to drop below to ~100 degrees while the boat is at speed (> 5mph). After running 10-15 minutes (pulling a tube), and drop back to an idle, the temp comes up on the gauge to 165 - 175. Is this normal, do I need to replace a temp sending unit?

Thanks for helping a newb.
-Jeff

[moved2ski]

Sounds like a stearing cable to me. When you change it you might check for binding in the rudder, but it is not likely. My temp gage has always had a wide range. If your spark plugs are black, it is running to cold.

[whitlock87]

With regards to #1, I agree with Moved2ski, that it is your steering cable. (Had to replace mine when the boat was 3 years old. It’s not that hard to do)
With regards to #2, I would not think you have an issue with your sensor, but your thermostat might be sticking open.

[TeamAllen]

My temp gauge fluctuates between 160 and 175, but never drops down like you mentioned.

[laserfish]

Probably the steering cable (replacing mine now) but I had the same symptoms and my helm was coming apart inside. The body of the helm is just cast pot metal and the casting web broke inside.

[virtualmiller1]

Thanks for the help.
I ordered new sensors and a thermostat kit today.
I need to dig into the steering problem. I agree that the cable is probably gone, and the helm may also be bad. My concern was that the steering is not stiff all the time. It's only an occasional lock-up. The previous owner let boat sit for quite a while, so I'm sure I'll have some more surprises.

Does any know the part #'s for the steering cable & helm?

[whitlock87]

The steering cable is not that hard to change.
There is a really good thread on how to do this, I will see if I can find it. (I think Lee posted it)
The big thing is to make sure after disconnecting it at the rudder, to tie a pull line to the cable before removing it.
You will not believe the difference a new cable will make.
Good luck
David

[hoopykat]

I believe SurfDad can get you set with the steering cable part numbers...he's a great resource here.

-Mike

[whitlock87]

http://www.tigeowners.com/forum/showthread.php?t=7338
Found it, it was on top of the how to list