Hi bought a Norman 18 ft and just began working on her. I am removing the steering cable as it is seized but it's proving to be a bit stubborn. So having just joined the forum can anyone tell me the correct size of cable to order.I was going to measure it when it was removed but reckon by that time it will be in a few pieces regards fesler
Just measure the bits left and add together or run piece of hose along the route and measure that, length will depend on the fit out/engine setup and there were quite a few variations including home finished kits so you could easily end up getting the wrong length going by recomendations from others. When it comes to Normans theres no such thing as standard, same with most boats of the age realy.
Cables from ASAP Supplies in Beccles start at around £56, plus they do all sorts of bits for steering sytems.
A new cable rack steering without cable comes in at about the same on Ebay plus postage, generally from the EU. Watch out for cheap kit from the USA - the postage is eye-watering and Customs duty applies too.
I've had seized steering before, unless the cable outer is damaged the seized bit is usually in the outboard well end. Try taking the entire thing off and dumping it for a day or so in a bucket of red diesel before applying brute force in a vice. You could well free it off. THe core is generally either a wound spring on the lighter duty ones or a wound spring around a steel wire cable on heavy duty ones - which you are unlikely to have.
Thanks for the replies. went back to boat today got frustrated and cut the cable.pulled out engine side no problem but other end stuck solid. prob use the hose method to calculate length. oh for stan. oh for standardisation of boaty things
steering cable
Posted - 18 Feb 2016 : 21:48:14
