Should I replace my steering cable myself?

[c-caron]

I have a 2003 22V. Before I pull the cable out, does anyone know what replacement size. And can I even do it myself? The moment I have dreaded about a V drive has come...... accessing parts I can't reach. Maybe if I pull the cooling intake hoses off, but still not easy. Anyone else done it??????

[Tequilasun]

Pretty sure you are going to have to pull the gas tank up and out of the way.

Generally on a V drive the steering cable is a Dealer fix item.

[zad0030]

Steering cables can be replaced but on a V drive... its a dealer fix.

[lee]

With a Merc it is a bit harder. You will not need to remove or lift the tank. Unbolt cable from the tiller arm, unbolt rack from sterring wheel. Unbolt cable from the tube support. Cut the cable in two by the gas tank and pull both parts of the cable out. Install new cable..... Should need about an 18'.

[c-caron]

I already disconnected everything, now I'm trying to get the cable out. I'm going to have to cut it after I figure out how I want to route the new cable back. Putting anything under the tank is rediculous. I shouldn't have to take the boat to the dealer for a mechanically simple process other than the way they chose to route the cables. Poor design.......As well as the lack of drainage from the glove box and bow seats.

[zad0030]

I already disconnected everything, now I'm trying to get the cable out. I'm going to have to cut it after I figure out how I want to route the new cable back. Putting anything under the tank is rediculous. I shouldn't have to take the boat to the dealer for a mechanically simple process other than the way they chose to route the cables. Poor design.......As well as the lack of drainage from the glove box and bow seats.

Easiest way to re route the new cable will be to, tie a rope to the end, so when you pull it through the rope is in the place of the cable, and then pull the rope to pull in the new cable. Thats how I did it on my 21I may be different on a V, but i assume it will work.

[lee]

Drop your new cable in the hole and run ontop of the gas tank.

[c-caron]

With a lot of work and probably luck, I was able to pry up the gas tank and get the cable out in one piece. I measured it and ordered a new one. I plan to route the new cable on top of the gas tank. I'd move my control cables up too, but I don't want to tempt fate. I put the old cable back in the new routing and it should work. I will post a thread when I am done in case anyone is crazy enough to do this after I do. I had to replace the cable on an inline once before and it that was EASY. It should not be this hard. I think it will save a lot of money though.

[lee]

You did not have to measure the cable it is stamped on the jacket, you should double check it.

[Tequilasun]

With a lot of work and probably luck, I was able to pry up the gas tank and get the cable out in one piece. I measured it and ordered a new one. I plan to route the new cable on top of the gas tank. I'd move my control cables up too, but I don't want to tempt fate. I put the old cable back in the new routing and it should work. I will post a thread when I am done in case anyone is crazy enough to do this after I do. I had to replace the cable on an inline once before and it that was EASY. It should not be this hard. I think it will save a lot of money though.

Didn't you know we love Guinea pigs around here!