Mechanical Steering for 1978 Boston Whaler 11-footer

[cfoster]

What [length] steering cable should I use [for mechanical cable steering on a 1978 Boston Whaler 11-footer]? Teleflex only sell in one-foot increments. The existing cable I want to replace is a 6.5-foot cable and extends out over the gunwale of the boat about 8-inches.

[Oldslowandugly]

You mean it's too big now? I would guess a six footer would be better then. Did you do the measuring per the Teleflex manual? Look here for yours. I would guess you have a Safe-T? http://www.seastarsolutions.com/support-2/installation-manuals-controls-cables/installation-manuals-mechanical-steering/

[cfoster]

Yes, I have a Safe T QC Rotary helm. I measured my existing cable. The length of the vinyl jacket is 60" (5'-0") and added 18" as indicated in Seastar Solutions printed info for a total length of 78" or 6'-6" existing cable. This existing cable was installed on my boat in 1997 by a previous owner. Using my existing cable as a guide, I determined that my existing cable is 10" too long. I need a 5'-8" cable to work within the existing gunwale and with my helm station located where it is presently mounted. I was told by Jim, tech support guy at Seastar Solutions that they only sell cables in 1 foot increments. Unless Seastar Solutions will fabricate and sell a 5'-8" cable then I will need to order a 6 foot cable therefore requiring that I modify the location of my existing helm station. Any help with a special order for a 5'-8" cable? I understand that a 6'-0" cable is a special order. Thanks for your reply. Charley

[Oldslowandugly]

Not cheap or easy to find, but, looky here-http://www.marineengineparts.com/steering-and-controls/steering-mechanical/rotary-helm-system/cables-rotary-ssc62.html and even a slightly used one- http://www.ebay.com/itm/Teleflex-SSC72-6-Safe-T-Rotary-Steering-Cable-6-ft-20260-/351434170068?hash=item51d31bded4:g:d3QAAOSwgQ9ViaOm&vxp=mtr. If you end up with an older model you can get an adapter to make it a Quick Connect if you feel that is needed. I don't. Another, this company I use a lot.http://www.wholesalemarine.com/boating-marine/control-steering-cables/rotary-steering-cable-by-teleflex.html