Info/Suggestions for Dual cable steering on Enticer

[204.enticer]

I'm looking for some insight/suggestions on installing a new dual cable steering system on my 1980 Enticer. It currently has a single cable steering and I've always had the dreadful cable snap thought in my mind so time to upgrade. Yes I do realize hydraulic is a little bit more money but I can't justify spending $1000 for hydraulic on a $4000 boat. It's powered by a 2002 115 Merc, no jack plate, running little over 50 mph, no chine walk trimmed out, 22 lazer.

Questions

Rotary vs Rack? I've seen this been debated about how fast you can run with the rotary. Am I okay with rotary or is rack required?

What cable length do I need for my Enticer? I would measure mine but my current single cable must be to long cause it hangs low on the drivers side.

Is the Teleflex system a good system? Good reviews from what I've seen.

Who has the best price?

Any one have one kicking around?

Install, other than maybe drilling new holes for the helm, new bracket at the motor, anything else I should be concerned about.

Any thing else I'm missing?

I do like to air the Enticer out a decent amount so it's time to do it worry free.

Thanks

Kris

 

[fox88gt]

I replaced the steering system on my Starflite when one of the steering cables got sticky and I couldn't find a replacement (mercury ride-guide steering is no longer available). I installed a Teleflex NFB (no feedback) dual cable rack system and couldn't be happier. Other than drilling new holes for the helm, it was an easy afternoon bolt-on project. Like you, I also could not justify the expense of hydraulic steering.

Go with the rack instead of rotary.

As far a cable length goes, remove your old system first and measure the cable length.

If you currently have Ride-Guide steering, you'll need a new steering wheel or wheel hub. The newer systems use an automotive style round tapered hub with woodruff key. Ride-Guide used a square tapered hub.

 

[jumbofordman]

I would strongly recommend considering hydraulic steering again. I lucked out on my Predictor and it already had rotary steering helm with room for a second cable so I only had to add a single cable and the motor kit.

On my Enchanter, it had a bad Ride-Glide system and I had to replace the whole thing - helm, and dual rack cable. Now after having driven it for a couple of years, I wish I had spent the extra money in the beginning and gotten a hydraulic system. The dual rack system works, and I feel safe driving it, but steering is still hard, and my arms do get sore after a day of boating.

The only thing in that might sway you towards a dual rack cable set up is your low top speed and smaller engine. If you had a V6 engine, would be firm on my recommendation.

 

[jumbofordman]

I would strongly recommend considering hydraulic steering again. I lucked out on my Predictor and it already had rotary steering helm with room for a second cable so I only had to add a single cable and the motor kit.

On my Enchanter, it had a bad Ride-Glide system and I had to replace the whole thing - helm, and dual rack cable. Now after having driven it for a couple of years, I wish I had spent the extra money in the beginning and gotten a hydraulic system. The dual rack system works, and I feel safe driving it, but steering is still hard, and my arms do get sore after a day of boating.

The only thing in that might sway you towards a dual rack cable set up is your low top speed and smaller engine. If you had a V6 engine, would be firm on my recommendation. Also, with your 115 Hp engine you might be able to get away with using a BayStar hydraulic system which is about the same price as a complete dual rack system. It's the Seastar that costs ~$1000.

 

[204.enticer]

So where is the cheapest place to buy a teleflex dual cable rack steering system? Seems like the going price is $500.

 

[MERC 225]

So where is the cheapest place to buy a teleflex dual cable rack steering system? Seems like the going price is $500.

Try Overton's when they have a 20% off sale.

 

[jumbofordman]

Black Bear Sporting Goods is who had the best price on steering items when I did mine a couple of years ago with one caveat - make sure you order the correct length. I had to send back my initial cable because it was too long and they have a restock fee in addition to the price of return shipping.

Have you figured out what length you need? I have just about decided to scrap/part out my Eluder, and it has a dual rack cable in it, you would just need a helm in addition.

 

[fox88gt]

www.greatlakesskipper.com

I got mine at Kendor Marine, which is the retail store for Great Lakes Skipper.

The steering feel improved so much when I replaced the original Ride Guide system with the Teleflex NFB system, it was like comparing a dumptruck to a go-kart. No stiffness or extra effort, easy to drive with one hand while underway and, no joking, one finger while docking. Also, no messy bleeding or filling the helm with fluid.

The money I saved bought me a couple summer's worth of boat gas.

 

[204.enticer]

Does anyone know the length of steering cable for an Enticer? I've read 13'. My boat is covered in about 4' of snow so save me some shovelling

 

[Kurtster]

www.greatlakesskipper.com

I got mine at Kendor Marine, which is the retail store for Great Lakes Skipper.

The steering feel improved so much when I replaced the original Ride Guide system with the Teleflex NFB system, it was like comparing a dumptruck to a go-kart. No stiffness or extra effort, easy to drive with one hand while underway and, no joking, one finger while docking. Also, no messy bleeding or filling the helm with fluid.

The money I saved bought me a couple summer's worth of boat gas.

I also went with replacing my Ride Guide system with the Teleflex NFB a couple of years ago in my Vision and I paid a little over $400 from Overtons, that was a sale price. I was and still am extremely happy with the Telexflex system, very smooth, easy one finger turning while docking, and nice response at speed.
Easy install, neat and simple.
Good luck.