Removing the steering cable from the helm

[Dakari]

Hi Gang, I'm having a hard time removing the steering cable from the helm of my X-18. There must be a catch or bolt I'm missing. I've attached a picture, though not of the best quality. Thanks in advance!

[hardcrab]

after you undo the large nut that holds the cable to the helm, you ought to be able to turn the wheel until the cable feeds out of the head

[Dakari]

Thats what I thought, too. But the steering wheel has some type of stop inside it, which prevents it from spitting the cable all the way out...

[hardcrab]

hmmm .....? I've had a few of those style heads, didn't have that happen

can you see if the cable end has a booger on it? (pinch, flat spot , ect)

[f_inscreenname]

You can also loosen the nut on the backside and pull the steering wheel out a little. Also makes it easier to get the wheel and the outdrive lined out.

[Conquistador_del_mar]

I'd like to know what is holding up the cable from coming out. Any of those BigT or SafeTs I've ever had were relatively simple to change the cable. I've never heard of a steering wheel having a stop lock built into it, but who knows?

[Dakari]

Spoke with a local marine mechanic today. He thinks the end of the cable may be boogered up and suggested cutting it off, then trying to get it to feed out.

[hardcrab]

bingo !

cut it with an abrasive disc for a clean cut so the cable feeds out

[Dakari]

Thanks, HC, I didn't think of that. It'll give me a chance to use my cut-off tool that usually just collects dust!