Loop in steering cable ??

[Vronsky]

Dear All,

I recently opened a service hatch in the cockpit locker of my Jeanneau Merry Fisher 605.
In the compartment behind this hatch runs o.a. the mechanical steering cable that starts at the helm in the cabin, and continues to the outboard engine at the back of the boat.

I noticed that this steering cable is not running in a straight line, but contains a huge, 360 degree loop.
The loop measures a circumference of no less than 140cm...

I'm wondering if this loop is the correct way to install this cable, instead of a straight line.
My steering wheel turns heavy, it's quite possible this loop could be the cause of this problem.

I've heard of loops in steering cables close to the outboard, to enable better tilting/turning.
This loop is in the middle of the cable: only explanation I can think of is that the loop merely serves to force fit a too long cable

I understand the steering cable has been pre-installed in the factory.

How is this on your OB boats?

THANKS, V.

 

[scottie]

Most modern outboard engines have what is called thru tube connection at the tilt swivel with the cable not requiring to move
There is unlikely any reason for a 360 bend in a production boat especially as the cost of the cable is length derived so its would point to a hasty replacement but it is in a boat

 

[Bouba]

Steering cables were the bain of my life when I had a MF585 outboard. If ever you leave the boat unused for any length of time make sure that at least once a week you take the steering from lock to lock. Better still get a lubricating system, even better change it completely for a hydraulic system

 

[Vronsky]

Steering cables were the bain of my life when I had a MF585 outboard. If ever you leave the boat unused for any length of time make sure that at least once a week you take the steering from lock to lock. Better still get a lubricating system, even better change it completely for a hydraulic system

old school ! Electric steering for me

 

[jim.howes]

Dear All,

I recently opened a service hatch in the cockpit locker of my Jeanneau Merry Fisher 605.
In the compartment behind this hatch runs o.a. the mechanical steering cable that starts at the helm in the cabin, and continues to the outboard engine at the back of the boat.

I noticed that this steering cable is not running in a straight line, but contains a huge, 360 degree loop.
The loop measures a circumference of no less than 140cm...

I'm wondering if this loop is the correct way to install this cable, instead of a straight line.
My steering wheel turns heavy, it's quite possible this loop could be the cause of this problem.

I've heard of loops in steering cables close to the outboard, to enable better tilting/turning.
This loop is in the middle of the cable: only explanation I can think of is that the loop merely serves to force fit a too long cable

I understand the steering cable has been pre-installed in the factory.

How is this on your OB boats?

THANKS, V.

Hi your steering cable will only travel in a straight(ish) line in certain areas eg along the side of the boat and part of the transom otherwise the cable would normally have 2 bends (maybe three) 1 bend to take the cable to the side of the boat from the steering head and another bend to take it from the side of the boat to the outboard. Morse recommend a minimum radius bend for their cables. A loop although not preferable would be ok as long as it meets the the manufacturers radius recommendations.

 

[Vronsky]

Thanks. Helm is SeaStar so I assume the cable aswell. SeaStar specifies a minimum bend of 8" radius. (=20cm).
Yes, funtional bends are unavoidable, but a loop is not a bend. I see no function of the loop apart from covering up poor part supply in the factory.

Having experience Jeanneau client service before, I expect I'll have to resolve this myself.

 

[Bouba]

Having experience Jeanneau client service before, I expect I'll have to resolve this myself.

Think of it as an opportunity to get rid of it?

 

[jim.howes]

Thanks. Helm is SeaStar so I assume the cable aswell. SeaStar specifies a minimum bend of 8" radius. (=20cm).
Yes, funtional bends are unavoidable, but a loop is not a bend. I see no function of the loop apart from covering up poor part supply in the factory.

Having experience Jeanneau client service before, I expect I'll have to resolve this myself.

Hi i agree with what you say that the loop is just something to cover up poor workmanship ie not knowing how to use a tape measure, but i might have considered a loop as a continuous bend. Have you checked the friction control on the outboard it may be just a little tight.

 

[PCUK]

In general cables should have as few loops as possible so fitting a correct length cable will greatly improve your steering.

 

[Vronsky]

Thanks. Yes, detached the drag link a while ago: engine turned very smoothly.

 

[scottie]

Contrary to popular believe straight runs in tight bends nearer the min radius recommended is far more efficient than long sweeping bend due to the effect of drag which is increased with load