We launched my buddies boat for the first time yesterday this season. He made it out about 100 yds from the ramp and his steering cable broke while he was trying to steer the boat when the engine with the power steering pump broke. Does anyone know what length cable and what type of cable he needs for this boat? Its a 1988 Scarab III with TRS drives. Also, how difficult is it to replace the cable? Thanks M.T.

The length should be stamped on the cable near one of the ends. If not you could use a piece of rope to run approximately where the cable runs through the gunnel and measure that. I pulled the center core out of the plastic casing and measured that but mine was not broken just frozen. He probably has a Mercury "ride guide" helm. You have to take the whole thing apart to replace the cable but it's not too bad. Just remove the whole assembly from the boat and it's easy to work on.

I replaced the one in my 38 Fountain 2 seasons ago and have just recently removed it to install hyd steering. It is available and I think it is about 22' but if you are interested, I will measure it.

Thanks, Todd