Steering Wheel very stiff

[Powerlock25]

I just bought this boat used. Steering was smooth and easy at first. After about 3 hours the steering became very stiff. How does this happen?

We did hit a couple waves and had to bilge out quite a bit.... Previous threads suggest cable corrosion causing issues. How can it go from so smooth and easy to VERY DIFFICULT so quickly?? Must I replace the cable this quickly??

[jake's02-22i]

This just happened to me last weekend as well. Started the day off great and when putting it back on the trailer I could barely control my boat it was so stuck. I would love any feedback anyone has.

[mikemcclain8]

Not sure why it would start all of a sudden, but check the path of the cable and make sure there isn't a kink somewhere or too tight of a bend around a structure. Check the rudder (if able) for bends or stiffness. Check any routing hardware that holds the cable steady. For my 2005, there is a clamp that holds the cable to the hull. Simplest reason is it needs a new steering cable. Pretty simple change on my direct drive but probably harder with your v-drive due to access.