Couple of things to check out.
Assuming you have Yamaha's and Seastar steering.
Check out pages 64 and 65 for details.
http://ww2.seastarsteering.com/PDFs/296221-E.pdf
If that link doesn't work, go here -
http://ww2.seastarsteering.com/SITE_MAP/s_map.htm click on "Seastar installation books", (left side, near bottom)... then click on the first file, at the top of the list, (296221).
First... there's a knurled adjustment knob, on the outboard's tilt tube, (item 16). The knob should have a small locking screw. Older Seastar models were metal and had an alllen head screw... newer models are plastic and have either a slotted or Phillips screw. Anyway... loosen the screw and turn the knob counter-clockwise to take out any slack. You should be able to turn it by hand. If it's jammed, use channel locks... but be careful not to over tighten it... you just want to take out play. Also... having someone move the steering wheel back and forth, while your adjusting the knob, helps to take out the slack.
And... check out items 6 and 7 on page 65, slide follower and bushing. If either of those are worn or damaged, you'll get lots of play.
If that doesn't help... again, have someone move the wheel back and forth. Closely watch your steering cylinder and ram to see if it moves as soon as the steering wheel does. If not... you need to bleed it.