Replacing Steering Cable

[Searay220SD]

good day all, appreciate any assistance with helping me figure out what is the easiest way to remove and replace a new steering cable on my 2011 Searay 220 Sundeck boat.
While doing some general inspections, I recently found some heavy corrosion damage on the steering cable that connects from the unit behind the steering wheel to the hydraulic actuation ram near the stern drive control at transom in the engine compartment.
See photos for reference.

I have a 350MAG with a Bravo III drive on it. I can’t seem to figure out how to get to the back of the steering wheel assembly to disconnect the cable at that end without risking snapping something on the dash in the process.

Also, are these cables readily available or do you have to purchase the complete steering assembly?

I am located in Perth, Australia.

Any assistance and input would be greatly appreciated.

 

[BillK2632]

I've never done it, but don't think it is too bad of a job. Your steering system should be a rack steering system, probably made by Teleflex. The cable and rack are usually replaced as a unit and are not too expensive. The new cables are sold by length, not specific boat model, so you will need to find out what length cable you have.
Here is an example of what you probably need, assuming it is a rack system - Wholesale Marine is also a Club SeaRay sponsor: https://www.wholesalemarine.com/teleflex-steering-rack-and-cable-ssc130.html

 

[Searay220SD]

I've never done it, but don't think it is too bad of a job. Your steering system should be a rack steering system, probably made by Teleflex. The cable and rack are usually replaced as a unit and are not too expensive. The new cables are sold by length, not specific boat model, so you will need to find out what length cable you have.
Here is an example of what you probably need, assuming it is a rack system - Wholesale Marine is also a Club SeaRay sponsor: https://www.wholesalemarine.com/teleflex-steering-rack-and-cable-ssc130.html

Good afternoon BillK2632, many thanks for your feedback and guidance. I have just looked at the photos again and identified that it is a telefoex cable. Will aim to get a model/serial number from the cable and get a new one ordered.
The challenge will remain how to get to the steering column and disconnecting and feeding it through. On first look it appeared to have cable ties along its length through the cavity, which would have to rip out half the stbd side paneling to gain access to it.
Will figure something out.
Appreciate your support and info. It was very valuable.

 

[Bt Doctur]

should only need to access the helm unit either rotary or rack Remove cable from helm and tie a cord/pull string to the engine end and remove . Use cord to pull new cable in

 

[hblock72]

From looking at your pictures of the damaged cable, I can't help but wonder if the steering cable was making contact with the hose clamp that is in close proximity. When you install the new cable make sure there's plenty of separation there or rotate the hose clamp so the bolt head is opposite the steering cable. A 2011 model year boat seems to new to have to be replacing a steering cable already. It certainly need replaced based on you pictures, but I'm thinking this is a premature failure likely caused by the cable sheath being chaffed.

 

[Leardriver]

I did it last year on a 270 Sundeck. On that vessel, there was a vinyl covered panel that had to be removed from the compartment in front of the wheel, and then just 4 bolts on the rack. Pull it out from the front, after tying a stout nylon cord around the bar in the back. There are a couple of areas of expandable foam along the side channel that have to be gouged and whittled away. Thread the new cable back through from the front towards the back.
I used the upgraded Teflon cable for about $135, and the boat was transformed into one finger steering. It took an hour, and another set of hands doesn't hurt with the feeding/wiggling.