Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: Steering link rods
Posted by Sax416 on 06/15/11 - 9:33 AM
#1
I'm having a heck of a time figuring out where to buy a steering link rod for my 88 35hp force engine. I am switching from the transom standoff bracket to directly mounting the teleflex cable through the tilt tube. Now I need to find a link rod. I figured it would be easy but... From pictures on eBay and such there doesn't seem to be much difference between a johnson bracket or a force bracket. They all seem to be 12" and have the same basic flat end with a hole and a right angle threaded end. Does anyone know if these rods are basically universal? I didn't think getting one of these rods would be difficult. Kind of thought I could just walk into the local marine supply warehouse and buy it. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.
Posted by Tom W Clark on 06/15/11 - 9:46 AM
#2
The steering link is typically supplied by the outboard manufacturer, not the steering manufacturer.
Because FORCE outboards have not been made in years, it would not surprise me that you are having difficulty in finding this part.
However, a simple GOOGLE search for
force,
outboard,
steering and
link produces a number of sources for old Force steering links.
Posted by Sax416 on 06/15/11 - 10:47 AM
#3
I googled it earlier but can't find an exact listing. In other words I found some out there but I have no way of knowing if the part will fit my 88 35hp. Some of the .coms have no listing at all. I may have to take a shot at one that lists as SLA-960f. It says it fits Chrysler force engines up to 140 hp. Not even sure if this thing is a Chrysler or a merc. Oh well, should have taken out another loan and bought a new engine. Thanks.
Posted by Phil T on 06/15/11 - 1:38 PM
#4
While searching online is an option, consider visiting a Mercury authorized dealer. I am sure their parts manager can look it up and order you one.
Posted by Sax416 on 06/15/11 - 6:13 PM
#6
Thanks Tom. I'll give them a call tomorrow To verify. I had contacted an outboard grave yard this afternoon and they are suppose to call me if they have one for a force in the yard. Not to hopeful on that so I'll likely be ordering from boats.net. Much appreciated.
Posted by Sax416 on 07/14/11 - 5:06 AM
#7
Boats.net could get the part but Merc had it on backorder for 3 weeks so I took that part number and ordered a used one off eBay and it worked out. Thanks for the direction Tom.