Change from rack and pinion to rotary steering

I would like to change the steering in my '94 Sport Nautique from the current tilt-column rack and pinion to a rotary steering system. Has anyone had any experience performing a swap like this? Is it possible? Can you recommend the correct parts for the job?

I tried searching the archives for a post on this subject and I didn't have any luck. So, if my questions have already been answered, I would appreciate help with finding the old posts.

Thanks in advance, jameski

gun-driver, I knew someone would ask...

My LOVE of the Correct Craft brand started with my 1978 Martinique. The performance, handling and quality of the craft was like nothing I had ever experienced. The rotary steering on the '78 was one of my favorite features. Not only is it extremely easy to turn (at ANY speed, and in ANY kind of turn), and extremely durable, it is also extremely precise.

The rack and pinion steering on the '94 Sport has been quite a different story. I know I'm not alone in my disappointment with the steering on this model - I've read many other posts from other owners of the same model. From my experience with this boat (now in my 8th season of ownership); with enough effort and expense, the steering can be made tolerable, but it is very short-lived. If I want to have decent (tolerable) steering, I need to plan to replace the (VERY expensive) steering cable annually, and take the back seat, dog house, and floor panel out and re-grease the zerk fitting on the rudder semi-annually (or install an external zerk). Now, the helm itself appears to have worn out and needs to be replaced as well. So, I thought if I have to make such a large repair, I might as well go with the old tried-and-true system that I loved so much to begin with.

The current cable (at least the fourth one in this boat) has tightened-up so much now that it aggravates the arthritis in my elbow and the bursitis in my shoulder just to steer it sitting still! It has to go SOON!

If anyone can give me some advice on the subject of installing rotary steering in this otherwise AWESOME boat, I would really appreciate it.

TRBenj, I'm listening, but I'm not quite understanding your advice... What is "the latest R&P system"? And, where can I get one for $300? "Smoother steering than the rotary" sounds good to me.

Something must be wrong if your on your 4th in 20 years,just changed the one in my 95. Do you get alot or leave alot of water in the bilge? Do you still have the rubber boot thats mounted on the support tube or have you ever changed it? It's there to keep water from getting inside the cable. Teleflex SA37868P is the part number but hard to find,this place has them or whoever gets you the rest of the parts should be able to get you one.

Thanks for the advice guys! I ordered the newer rack and pinion system from Zach at N3boatworks. I skied it hard for three days so far and I'm lovin' it! Smooth as silk!

...Time will tell if it lasts like the old rotary.