Power Steering "stiff" on my 454 Magnum
 

Just got the boat ready from winter storage, and the power steering does not seem to be working.

I can drive it, but feels like a truck!

Checked the fluid, fine, and correct level, belts feels tight, and I can see the pump spinning while the engine is running.

No oil puddles in the boat either.

Any ideas of what this could be?

I don't want to put in a new pump and find out it was something else.

Thanks for the input in advanc.e

Non-hydro I presume. If so, it's likely the steering cable.

Disconnect at the actuator and move back and forth. Fairly easy to replace.

Thanks!

Did that yesterday, your right its the cable.

Now I have to find one, or replace the helm with a complete system.

It is a 1990 boat with Quickslilver Ride Guide Spiral rack & pinion.

Good to hear.

Let me know if you're interested in replacing the helm. I have a complete ride guide rotary unit I was going to put on a prior boat, but sold it before the project was started. No cable included though.