Steering kind of hard on 1996 bayliner capri 1750-gctid810748

[Tmeadows]

Ok so when I turn the wheel about half way either way it gets a little stiff. I was checking out the helm and the pinion underneath the bolts are a little loose could the be problem. I looked at the steering rod in engine compartment that all looked good but I k i.e. looks are deceiving. It is a 3.0 onboard any help would be appreciated

[Ruffryder]

Most 3.0 is not power assisted, so it is going to be hard steering somewhat.

[Jmccabe]

Can you add power steering to a 1996 capri 1750 LS with a 3.0?

[wgander]

The four bolts for the rack and pinion must be tight. This happened to me twice years ago. If they aren't tight, the rack and pinion bind. After you do that, you can consider replacing the steering cable. My cable had no lubrication fitting and greasing the extended shaft back by the engine didn't make a difference. After 17 years of mostly salt water boating, there must have been corrosion inside the cable. Since I replaced the cable (and the rack and pinion), I can steer with my pinkie!