How to Measure a Steering Cable

When replacing a steering cable on your boat, getting the correct length is essential to ensure smooth and safe steering. Here’s how to measure both for an existing cable and a new installation.

Identifying an Existing Cable

If you're replacing an existing cable, first check the plastic jacket for any part numbers. These numbers, stamped on the outer casing, may help identify the length or type of the cable. However, due to wear, age, or other factors, these numbers may be worn or difficult to read.

If the markings are unclear or the cable has been removed, follow the steps below to accurately measure the replacement cable.

Measuring an Existing Cable

Measure the length of the plastic cable jacket, which is referred to as the “Y” dimension in the diagram below, then add 18 inches to measurement and round up to the nearest foot.

• Once you have this measurement:
• Add 18 inches (460mm) to the total length.
• Round up to the next foot.

Measuring for a New Installation

When installing a new steering cable, it's crucial to measure the cable routing accurately from the wheel’s centerline to the engine connection point. There are two methods to measure the steering cable:

1. Tilt Tube Steering Cables: Add 6 inches to your measurement, then round up to the nearest foot.
2. Splashwell or Transom Mount Cables: Subtract 6 inches from your measurement, then round up to the nearest foot.

Follow the steps below, then use our calculators to find the correct cable for your installation type:

1. Measure from the centerline of the steering wheel to the gunnel (denoted as A).
2. Measure from the dashboard to the transom (denoted as B).
3. Measure from the gunnel to the centerline of the cable connection, with the outboard engine in the forward position (denoted as C).

Based on these measurements, use the following calculations to determine the correct cable length:

• Add A + B + C + 6 inches (150mm).
• Round up to the next foot.
• Order that cable length.

• Add A + B + C, then subtract 6 inches (150mm).
• Round up to the next foot.
• Order that cable length.

Cable Variances

Remember, due to variances between different brands of cables, it’s always best to measure the installed cable length to avoid surprises. There’s nothing worse than wrestling with a new cable only to find it’s 300mm (about a foot) too short!

Converting Metric to Imperial

Steering cables are typically measured in feet. If you’ve measured your cable in millimeters (mm), you can convert it to feet by dividing the total by 304.8, then rounding to the nearest foot.

Helpful Measuring Tips

If you're struggling to measure with a steering cable, a flexible garden hose can be a great tool. It’s easier to maneuver through the boat than a stiff steering cable, but firmer than a string or tape measure, providing a more accurate estimate of the length needed.

With these guidelines, you can ensure that you order the right steering cable for your boat, avoiding any installation hassles or steering issues on the water.