Wheel is Seized

[Meanwhile]

So help me out. My wheel is seized yet the boat can steer the motors via the auto-pilot. What the heck. This is happening live time with a friend using the boat, qualified guy.

Any help, advice appreciated.

2007 Marlin
Simrad auto pilot.
Twin 250's.

The only thing I can think of is a stuck override in the helm.

Randy

 

[B8CASTR]

I had this happen on one of my boats years ago but I didn't have autopilot. I assume you have hydraulic steering; could there be something wrong there so your wheel won't turn but your auto will?

 

[Meanwhile]

Two things I got from talking to repair shop: there is a U joint in the tilt mechanism that might seize, or inside the helm itself.

I ordered a refurb model and will replace the whole helm & tilt.

 

[Ky Grady]

Check ball or spring hung up in helm. Might be time for new helm.

 

[Meanwhile]

To update this thread it was the tilt mechanism, specifically the pot metal universal joint in that mechanism. I replaced the tilt and all is good. Now I have a backup helm. Not a bad thing to have on the shelf.