Rudder adjustment is loose

[tewbert]

Noob here. I replaced the rudder cable on my friends 1998 196 today. I was underneath checking the rudder for slack /binding before connecting the new cable. I noticed the adjustment tab on the rudder was loose. I tried to tighten the 2 screws and they felt tight already or bottomed out. Is there another piece to the tab that might be missing? I can't imagine it's doing any good it it has 1/2" of play in it. Any ideas. Thanks
Gary
Memphis, TN

[xrichard]

Sorry I can't be more helpful but, FWIW, same thing on my boat. The dealer fixed it when I was in for service...unfortunately, I'm not sure what he did. I'm guessing it's an easy fix...either the threads are bottoming (just get shorter screws or cut off the existing ones) or the little lock washers are interfering (you could cut them down or try to find smaller ones).

[jasper]

The torque adjustment tab should be tight. You will need to position it based on the amount of resistance you like to have on the steering wheel while driving. Set it in the center for no torque, but tighten that puppy down. Should have lock washers on the screws.

[toddrswenson]

Where do you make that adjustment? Sounds like something I would like to do.

1997 Ski Nautique

[NautiqueJeff]

Your '97 may not have the adjustable rudder. I don't remember when those came out. If your rudder is all metal without the black adjustment tab, your only option will be to grind your rudder.