Help on replacing steering tie bar for twin Honda 40s

S

smittypaddler

New member
I need advice on replacing the steering tie bar between
my twin Honda 40s. I bought my C-Dory new in 2004, and the tie bar is part of the original package, and is very corroded. The tie bar was made by a Minnesota company, Stearns, Inc., but their website, www.stearnsinc.com, doesn't respond. The label says, "Warning: For trolling motors only, 25 HP Max, Made in Taiwan," which doesn't bother me too much, since it's performed without flaw for 9 years. But since Stearns seems to be out of business I'm looking for suggestions of alternative replacements. I've posted a description with photos here:

http://smittypaddler.com/tiebar/
 
What you are using to tie your two 40's is the same as I'm using to tie my kicker. And as it is a great set up for that I don't think I would use it for your application. If are dead set on using the same set up you can replace the bar with stainless all thread.
 
I can't argue whether the setup I have is good or bad. That's the way the boat was when I received it from the dealer. I will repeat, however, it's performed without mishap for 9 years and about 10,000 miles (I did the Great Loop, among other cruises). The recommendation for the A92/700 tie bar from Ultraflex is one I had considered, but I have a question: My current set up has a small universal joint at either end, which I don't see in the photo of the A92/700. I'm assuming the tie bar is in two pieces each inserted into the center tube, which allows them to independently rotate, giving the same range of motion as a universal joint, allowing each engine to be tilted independent of the other. Can you confirm this is true? Also, can you recommend an online dealer? A google search produces the image, but I haven't found a website that has a purchase button.
 
Mine is a ball joint type of setup and it allows individual motors to tilt all they want. While you may not think it is marginal due to strength, the original maker did and it looks like a light duty piece to me. That is not to say it has not worked because it clearly has. My concern is corrosion and you have lots of it. Mine is almost 20 years old and still looks nearly new. I would bet you put a number of those ones on your boat over the course of 20 years. Of course, if you are happy with your setup, go that direction. I wish you well in your search :)
 
They are a spring loaded ball and socket type of set up. The sockets just screw right on the bar.You used to be able to get the sockets and the ball joints separately. I had to a couple of years ago. I got mine local I would try Cabellas, or Bass pro, or West Marine. I do remember seeing the tie system in Cabellas catolog. Sterns made two set ups, one stainless steel and the other for fresh water. Galvinized I think.
 
If you are happy with the use you got from it I would replace with the same length of stainless all thread rod. You should be able to get that at a really good hardware store or a Marine store. Then spray it with corrosion X twice a year.
 
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