Is there any type of stabilizer for cable steering like the ones for hydraulic steering? My transom saver isn't long enough so I'm using motor sticks instead. I don't like how the motor can turn when trailering. I currently turn it to the side and hold the wheel with a bungee but prefer to have it held straight.

www.motormateusa.com

Thx! Like the look of that biut not wild about the price.

Unless you like throwing money away, I wouldn't worry about it. I don't use transom savers, and don't encourage anyone else to use them, but they are one of those items that made it big with a brand name and advertising and now everybody things they are a must.

I don't know of a motor that does not have a trailering support built into it. Using that is a lot easier on the transom and the motors lower unit, even with these big V-6 motors. I bought my first six cylinder motor in 1969, didn't use one then, and still have used one today.

I know there are tons of people thinking BS, they wouldn't haul a boat without one, but, that's was the reason for the adds and brand name, just so they would think that. It actually does little to nothing for saving the transom and can destroy a lower unit. The majority of people I see using them, don't even know how.

My Mercury owners manual clearly states that you should not trailer the rig with the tilt lock holding the motor in the up position.  It is not designed for that purpose.

 

They recommend towing a boat with the motor in the vertical position.  Of course that could easily net you a damaged lower unit.

 

While I think the transom of a boat, in most cases, is up to the rigors of trailering, I would never knowingly tow my boat with the motor in the vertical position.   Mercury does not like having pressure on the hydraulics.  I understand that makes no sense since it has more force on it under power.

 

Methinks Merc is trying to absolve themselves of any and all responsibility when damage does occur during travel.

 

Since the owner's manual says not to use the tilt lock when towing, what's a boater to do?

 

I use a spring loaded transom saver which will reduce shock somewhat on a rough stretch of road, or the occasional pothole.

They arent cheap, but its cheaper than damaging the motor support, transom, or something else

I haven't had a Merc in many years, didn't know that. I guess I'll have to recant my comment for those. Not many bass boat trailers are going to give you enough clearance to tow with the motor down.

Just bungee the steering wheel to something in the boat.

Thx for the input. Anyone have a solution to the steering stabilization problem?

Getting a motor support/transom saver that works will stabilize.

If the motor stiks are letting the motor turn back and forth they arent working properly

Get you a lock n haul.  It will stabilize the motor without touching the trailer.  I have been using one for several years.

Lock n Haul, Motormate, same thing.

When used, both will completely lock the outboard in place.

If the motor is moving on its own like that, I think there is something wrong. The only motors I've ever had that flopped around were tillers.