2003 outback LS rudder very tight

[Dom08]

Hello all,
I have an 03 outback. I changed the rudder cable about 7 years ago.
I find that the steering is very very hard to turn. This season I greased the rudder and it loosened up a bit. The boat has been in the water for a couple months. We haven't used it for 3 weeks and today it was very very hard to turn the wheel (even hard with 2 hands)

Can I get some guidance on this?

[996scott]

I think you are in need of replacing the steering cable again. When it gets tight are hard to turn the wheel it's time. If the boat has water in the hull for long peroids of time it will eventually cause the erosion or build up of stuff on the cable. You could disconect the cable and check to see if the rudder turns freely. If it does then replace the cable.

[SkiBoy]

I have a 99 LS and every year, sometimes twice a season, I lube the rudder. I can turn the wheel with one finger all the way right and left.
If you have lubed the Zerk fitting, it must be the cable.

[Dom08]

I will disconnect the rudder and check for stiffness. Thanks for the help

Any idea why this cable may not last? Just moisture seeping through the jacket in the hull?

[996scott]

That is my understanding. Moisture will cause it to fail prematurely.