Steering System replacement?

[Diggman33]

Got the 2000SC back from the marina, and they confirmed what I thought... my steering is on it's last leg, and needs replacement before next season.
Current system is a manual rack system with tilt helm hub, so Im wondering:

- What is a good replacement?
- Can I upgrade to an NFB system?
- Do I need to replace the helm hub in addition to the steering cable?
- Is replacing the steering cable a DIY job, or is this something I should let the marina do?

My forearms will appreciate any input you can offer!

[seapuppy]

sorry to hear about your steering..but if you want to upgrade...go with a pwr steering set up...add the pump to the front of the engine...run the hoses...add the new steering hub....new steering ram...done!!.....no problem...but if it were me...I'd let the pro's do it....let us know what you end up with...


SP

[Diggman33]

Thanks for the speedy reply SP.

Do you know of a place to find power steering parts for a merc 3.0lx?

Maybe I can grab the necessary parts online, and have the marina do the heavy lifting...

[seapuppy]

try www.boatfix.com

give them an email and he can probably get the parts for you...good prices too..

SP

[Diggman33]

Got a price of $545 at marinepowerservice.com - apparently this includes everything from the pump aft. Not sure, is that a good price?

Also, I went out to boatfix.com, but I didn't see any kits available for a 3.0L... talk about a difficult site to navigate! I'll try giving them a call I guess.

One more question: Would I need to change the helm to convert to a power steering system?

[seapuppy]

I think you have to change out the steering unit if yours is presently cable driven..it has to go to hydraulic...

SP