Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: Steering Shaft broke under wheel
Posted by rjohnson on 04/14/14 - 6:49 AM
#1
1977 Montauk 17'. Steering wheel broke completely off shaft. I removed nut and woodruff key from inside center of steering wheel. What parts will I need to make this repair? Thanks in advance fore any advice.
Posted by Tom W Clark on 04/14/14 - 7:26 AM
#2
You need a new steering system.
You *could* just replace the helm, but if it is original, and broke off, how far behind can the rest be?
The cost of replacing the helm and the entire system is is pretty close so why not upgrade at this point?
Posted by rjohnson on 04/14/14 - 9:25 AM
#3
If I do just replace the Helm, how am I to know if I need a Big T, Safe T/Quick Conn, No feedback rotary, etc, etc?
Posted by Tom W Clark on 04/14/14 - 9:33 AM
#4
You can use whatever Teleflex rotary you like, they are all compatible with your boat and cable.
Price it out. You may be surprised. You can buy the entire system for $100-$200. You won't find a helm alone for less than that.
In 1977, Whaler *might* still have been using the Big-T on the Montauks. Take a look at yours. It should be obvious.
Posted by Tom W Clark on 04/14/14 - 9:47 AM
#5
Teleflex offers essentailly four different rotary mechanical steering systems, other than the Big-T which is no longer recommended for outboards.
Safe-T QC, 3 turns lock-to-lock (this is what Whaler used in the late 1970s & early/mid 1980s)
Safe-T-II, 3 turns lock-to-lock, plus a no feedback (NFB) clutch
NFB 4.2, 4.2 turns lock-to-lock, plus NFB clutch
These helms are all quick connect (QC) style but you can adapt an existing cable to them with the QC adapter.
You can also buy the new Xtreme, 5 turns lock-to-lock, uses special Xtreme cable with very little slop and super smooth operation. You would have to buy the entire system to use this, but that entire kit can be had for not much more than $200