---

I finally measured my boat for a new Teleflex steering system - I'm wondering how tolerant these are of having an extra foot of length... when I measured (generously), I got 9.5" - add 6 inches that takes me to 10'... then it says round up to the nearest foot - well, 10' is the nearest foot. Should I go to 11' just in case? Will the extra length be a problem?

Can steering cables be exchanged for a different size if needed? I'm planning to buy on eBay, but I may just try to get my local West Marine to price match and buy it there, in case I need an exchange.

---

Is this going to be used on your 13'? If it is.....I'm using an 11' Teleflex cable for my 13' sport. The extra length, if any, shouldn't be a problem.....depending where you set your steering console.

---

Thanks - I'm inclined to go with 11', as long as that extra length can be dealt with - i assume they can't be coiled, but I can probably run it a bit wide to give it some extra distance.

Did you use an NFB 4.2 or the non-NFB? I'm about to hit order on an NFB system, just need reassurance that it's worth the extra cost on a small boat.

---

I believe it's "Non-NFB" as it does turn quite easily. The NFB requires more effort to turn. I just replaced the whole steering system two years ago so I'll have to get back with you. Also, I'm not sure if it's 4.2 turns or 3 turns from end to end. I check it out this afternoon sometime unless someone else chimes in.

---

On my 13 with the engine set up high and about 5 inches back on a jack plate a 10-foot cable is just right, but I don't know if the console location in the later Super Sports means you need an extra foot.

I have the Safe-T system which is not NFB. My understaning is the NFB system will have finer control and less play. There is some play in my Safe-T system, but not enough to make me want to spring for the higher cost alternative.

John K.

---

You do want to get it as close as possible, they can be a little unwieldly if you have too much. Just curious, can you measure your old one or have you made some changes? You could also email Whaler and ask them. This may be the time you want to buy one thats easily returnable, like you mentioned, if all else fails.

---

I replaced the Teleflex on my Montauk a few years ago. I don't believe I could have worked with a cable that had any 'extra' length. Very difficult to bend and I can't imagine trying to coil it. My advice... get it as close to the 'right' length as possible.

---

You want to get that just right, too much cable hangs over the back in a loop just waiting to "Catch" a dock cleat, too short and it won't make the bend, and it will bind up.

---

Go with the 10'. I got the 11' cable for my No Feedback (NFB) teleflex system just to be safe myself. In the end I had to create an extended cork screw / coil to take up the extra slack. It was pain. I bought the longer cable as I was going to make a much wider steering console and move the helm to the hulls center line. I ended up selling the boat before I did that though.

http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/...directlink

---

The reason I went with the 11' cable is because I moved my seats and steering console forward about 8". I didn't have any slack or need to coil the cable at all.

---

So the final question - which steering system? NFB, NFB 4.2, or SafeT QC? Price isn't really an issue - plus or minus $50 isn't going to sink this project at this point...

FWIW, I'm repowering with a old (but clean) 55hp Evinrude - on the big side, but should be manageable - I'm thinking the bigger the motor, the more I'll want NFB system... so should I go with the 4.2 or the 3 turn NFB?

---

I too will be replacing helm and cable and am trying to figure out which of the three are best. I'd also like too hear some opinions from those who have used each.

---

I switched to the 4.2 Teleflex from the 1; to 1; steering ratio of the "stand off" bracket steering system. The old system made the boat handle like a Corvette but, if you let go of the wheel, the engine could go side ways throwing you out of the boat. The 4.2 is much safer, and you can let go of the wheel and she stay's right there, I switched over steering systems when I re-powered because, the kid's came along, and we have little hands constantly reaching for the helm.

---

Could someone confirm parts numbers for teleflex conversion from pulley system on a 1977 Sport 13 using the original console location. My impression is order with a 10 foot cable but want to confirm for a 13 foot sport. Also parts numbers and if a 20 degree bezel should be ordered to keep same position of original whaler stainless wheel?

Thank You,