I'm trying to pull the steering cable off the power steering rack on the transom of the boat.

I unscrewed the 2" long aluminum bolt at the end of the cable where it first enters the steering rack. I then took off the cotter pin at the very end of the steering cable.

Now, just after where the steering cable connects to the rack, the cable is still connected to the rack by a 2-3" round section that has a large bolt pointing forward and what looks like a rubber boot behind it, definitely flexible. I pulled that bolt out, but I can't get this section to disconnect from the power actuator. Has anyone done this and can provide me some pointers? I have to get this piece off as I can't pull the cable out with it on as the cable backs into the starboard gunnale.

Thanks!

The piece that I can't get off is part #15 in the linked diagram below.... also, part #15 on my assmebly has some movement in it, should it be tight or is it normal that this part is loosely connected to the main actuator body?

http://www.mercruiserparts.com/Show_...POWER+STEERING

Did you pull pin #26? and unscrew the cables afixing nut?

The only thing preventing me from lifing this out is the #15 part, I can't get it to come away from actuator body part #8.

Yes, I have the nut and end pin off... If I had a single engine setup, I'd be able to pull the cable all the way out without removing #15, but with the twin, the cable doesn't have enough room to pull back through part #15.

Yup, nut at point cable meets steering unit is off and pin at very end of cable has been removed. I can pull the cable toward the port gunnale about 1' at best and I can see where it's separateing from the end pin #26. I just don't have room to pull the cable end rod all the way through #15.

I need to understand that #15 part. I took off part #17 thinking it would allow me to pull #15 off..... wondering if #15 has to be pryed a little?

Pull the pivot bolt the big one that comes in from the top and the pin going to the tiller, pull the whole unit then it should just slide off. You are trying to get it apart at the shuttle valve, better to leave the unit in one piece.

QUESTION: Can the cable be saved and just the rotary unit behind the dash be replaced??? Haven't opened up the rotary unit to see how the cable connects to it.....

yes it can if it's in good shape. You have to pull the rotary unit apart to install a new cable so you could just leave the same cable and change the helm. Is it a "mercury ride guide"?

I have to check what was printed on the back of the unit, have it written down at home. Basic Merc Quicksilver setup, matches what is on the parts breakdown for the standard setup.

I basically have a clicking noise coming from the unit behind the dash whenever I turn a little one way and then back again. Not sure what causes the single click sound. I don't believe it's normal and want to replace that rotary section.

Yup, it's a ride guide rack & pinion.