I recently bought a 1999 Nitro 700 bass boat with a 115 Mercury. It says on the steering column "Rack & Pinion Steering". I was surprised how DIFFICULT it is to steer. It is harder to steer than a non-power steering truck I used to have with 35" tires on it at low speeds. Once I get some speed it seems to get easier but usually I am not turning as much obviously. When manuevering around the ramp I have to use both hands to turn the wheel and often find myself gritting my teeth. My wife really cant turn the boat effectively and thus is nervous to try driving it.

My questions are is this normal for a nitro bass boat? If not, how do I fix if? If it is normal how do I upgrade it?

Thank you!

Sounds like my boat (which is 20 years old).  I figure my problem is a dry steering cable.  If I ran the OB more often I would change the cables.

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Most likely you have at least one bad steering cable.  They cost approx $150 each plus the labor to install them.

Now would be a great time to consider upgrading to hydraulic steering.  You will luv it when you do.