Steering Link Rod Fasteners - Mercury 250 XS OptiMax Operation, Maintenance & Installation Manual

Steering Link Rod Fasteners

IMPORTANT: The steering link rod that connects the steering cable to the
engine must be fastened using a special washer head bolt (P/N 10‑849838)
and self‑locking nylon insert locknuts (P/N 11‑826709113). Never replace
locknuts with common nuts (nonlocking) as they will work loose and vibrate off,
freeing the link rod to disengage.
Improper fasteners or improper installation procedures can result in
loosening or disengagement of the steering link rod. This can cause a
sudden, unexpected loss of boat control, resulting in serious injury or death
due to occupants being thrown within or out of the boat. Always use required
components and follow instructions and torque procedures.
Worn, loose, or seized steering components can lead to loss of boat control.
Inspect all steering attachment components for wear, lubricate all attachment
hardware, and check all fasteners for proper tightness in accordance with the
inspection and maintenance schedule.
a
b
a - Special washer head bolt (P/N 10‑849838)
b - Nylon insert locknut (P/N 11‑826709113) ‑ used on head bolt
c - Flat washer (2)
d - Nylon insert locknut (P/N 11‑826709113) ‑ used on cable coupler
1. Assemble steering link rod to steering cable coupler with two flat washers
"c" and a self‑locking nylon insert locknut "d." Tighten the locknut until it
seats, then loosen ¼ turn.
2. Assemble the steering link rod to the engine with the special washer head
bolt "a" and self‑locking nylon insert locknut "b."
3. Torque the head bolt, then the locknut to specifications.
eng
MAINTENANCE
WARNING
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WARNING
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c
d
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