Kit To Convert From Edson
 Steering Cables
To Open Wire Cables


Do to the necessary machining, I was asked to provide a kit for my open cable steering conversion.

The kit will provide the components shown, cable and hardware for open cable steering system to replace the Edson single cable or two cable small boat steering linkage on C250s.

This steering system resulted from a desire to get away from Edson cables do to many reported failures.  In the process of designing an open wire system, I became aware of several shortcomings of the sheathed cables that in my opinion make open cables a much better system.

The design is my own. 

System offerings:
  • About half the cost of the Edson upgrade
  • Avoids the drag associated with bending sheathed cables
  • Has no steering play associated with idler chain or loose cables
  • More than doubles the steering ratio of the Edson system for easier and  more precise helming
  • Leaves the rudder arm unloaded for easy removal of the rudder
  • Simple to install
  • Very easy to adjust and maintain tension on the cables
  • Cable and ball bearing sheaves are easily and quickly replaceable from inexpensive spare parts obtained locally and easy to carry aboard.
  • Provides proportional steering which solves the diminishing leverage problem of the Edson system at greater rudder angles by increasing leverage rather than diminishing it as greater hydro forces affect the rudder
  • Less protrusion into the aft berth than the Edson upgrade

Additional Comments and Installation Pictures

Comments from
a buyer of the kit - "The steering is well beyond my expections. "
an owner who built the design - "Mod exceeded my expectations!"

The steering ratio change proves to be a huge success, offering a precise and easy helm.

Should an owner with the pull / pull later system consider a conversion ?

Link to an installation documentation