How do I keep my outboard motor from turning while trailering?
My outboard swings to one side when I tow the boat, even though I leave it pointing straight ahead. What should I use to hold it in place, and will a transom saver stop the steering moving as well?
Answer
Keep your outboard from turning during road transport with steering stops made for its steering system, or secure the tiller on a small manual-steering engine. Check the engine's trailering instructions first, because stopping sideways movement and supporting a tilted outboard are separate jobs, and one device may not do both.
Find where movement starts
With the boat secured on its trailer, centre the engine and gently push the lower unit sideways. Watch the steering cylinder, cable connection, engine bracket and steering wheel to see where the movement starts.
Switch off the engine and remove the key and kill cord. Keep fingers clear of the swivel and tilt brackets while positioning or securing it.
- The wheel turns with the engine: the engine's weight or road movement is driving the steering backwards. A suitable restraint can stop this.
- The engine moves before the steering linkage responds: inspect the drag-link connections, bushes and mounting hardware for wear or looseness.
- Hydraulic steering feels spongy, leaks or behaves differently afloat: investigate the steering fault before towing or using the boat.
A restraint should control normal transport movement. It should not disguise worn steering joints or loose engine mounting bolts. There is no universal tightening torque. Use the specification for your steering kit and engine.
Restrain hydraulic or cable steering
For many outboards with an exposed hydraulic steering cylinder, a pair of purpose-made steering stops is the simplest solution. These fit over the exposed cylinder rod on either side of the cylinder assembly to limit sideways travel. SeaStar-type installations commonly accept them, but compatibility depends on the cylinder design, available space and engine position.
Centre the outboard, measure the exposed spaces as the stop manufacturer specifies, and choose the correct kit. Some stops come in fixed lengths; others can be trimmed as instructed. Budget roughly £15 to £40 for a basic pair.
Do not grip a polished hydraulic rod with pliers, metal clamps or improvised collars. Scratches can damage the rod seals and cause leaks. Keep restraints clear of hydraulic hoses, grease nipples and fittings. Remove the stops before operating the steering.
Integrated hydraulic steering, power steering and electric steering may need a different manufacturer-approved arrangement. Conventional cable steering needs a restraint suited to that system; hydraulic cylinder clips do not fit every installation. Tying the steering wheel may still leave movement at the engine end of a worn cable system.