Step one is to verify if the cable or the engine is the problem. Take the
rod from the motor loose from the cable rod and see if you can turn the
steering wheel easily and the rod moves in and out. If it does - problem is
in the motor itself.
If it still is hard to move try and run the cable all the way in (steering
wheel full left). Then remove the nut that holds the cable to the motor (on
the side the cable enters the motor). Now remove the cable. If stuck - you
will have to take a hammer and tap it out.
Now see if the steering wheel works the cable easily. If it does, the
steering cable is fine and you just need to clean the tube on the motor,
regrease everything, and reinstall.
If not - you will probably need a new cable. Remove the old one and measure
carefully. Order one the same length.
You will want to clean the motor tube either way.
Purchase a long drill bit extension and a wire pipe cleaning brush. Cut the
handle off and insert in the drill extension and tighten. Now you can use
the drill and some oil and clean the inside of the tube.

--
Tony
my boats at http://t.thomas.home.mchsi.com

"tillius" wrote in message
om...
My boat has a single cable running to a "tube" that apparently steers
the motor. The wheel was very hard to turn and upon examination, it
appears that this 'tube' is frozen and the cable is broken.

Is this an expensive repair and/or is it something someone moderately
mechanical could do himself?

Thanks

Tillius