Rudder Movement

I have a 92 Nautique.
Towards the back end of last season, the steering became increasing heavy and difficult to turn, it was especially difficult to turn to starboard whenever any level of power (prop rotation) applied. With the Prop not turning the steering could be turned freely in both directions using just a finger.
The boat is out of the water now , and I have inspected the rudder for damage, there is none, however there does seem to be some play in the rudder side to side.
My question therefore is what could cause the heavy steering? And how do I recitfy it?
If the solution involves removing the rudder from it's housing, is there a manual available with the breakdown of the parts of the Through hull housing and how it goes together?
Advice please!!
Pete :?

[tryan]

there is an adjustment for the packing much like your shaft log on the prop shaft. you should replace the packing ( waxed rope/string seal ) and then check for slop. water should be pouring in if the rudder is that loose. if you get rid of the slop and the seering is still tight, you should inspect the steering cable. replace the cable if it questionable. BE SAFE.

don't mess with it in the water. the rudder system is not that complicated, but if you drop it..........



if the rudder shaft housing has worn from being driven loose, you might take the housing and the rudder
to a prop shop or skidim.com sell replacement rudders.