MacGregorSailors.com

Does anyone have information on linkage that makes it easy and fast to disconnect the outboard motor from steering while sailing? I have a '97 26X. I was told that the steering bar/linkage from motor has to be connected to a stud mounted near the engine that will keep the engine on centerline. I don't see a mounting stud or post of any kind on my used 26X. Thanks

Hopefully this does not violate advertisement policies http://bwyachts.com/web%20catalog%20312 ... eering.htm

I second the BWY quick disconnect. Unless you want to take the time to part out the same system and weld/bolt it together.
I have frequently forgotten to reconnect the linkage (I leave it locked when I’m not there during the week so the OB doesn’t get smashed around) and can be a shock leaving the dock only to find I have no control, but I can reconnect and be back steering in less than five seconds.

Gabby_SC wrote:Hopefully this does not violate advertisement policies http://bwyachts.com/web%20catalog%20312 ... eering.htm

BWY is an advertiser here (check the banner ad at the top, and refresh the page a few times until their ad comes up). And a valuable resource.

Here's a video of the BWY connect
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ToUB-ox3GDs

Gunnslinger,
I have a 97 X to with 1-1/4 inch aluminum swing arm that connects the motor and rudders to that U shape arm. There is another arm that is a quick release off the engine to that arm. Is this what you have? Note the M and later MacX is much different.
If you have the aluminum bar and not the stainless steel arm that connects to one rudder to motor it is a simple add on.
Disconnecting motor from rudders is a hands off steering and much better control at the wheel.
I just changed steering to 9ft cable uflex rotech rotor,big diffrenace. My old one had 8 ft. cable. Extra ft. gives a wider bend and mounted to linner with rivits and u channel brackets so its higher for sleeping and smoother cable run.
Dave

GUNNSLINGER wrote:Does anyone have information on linkage that makes it easy and fast to disconnect the outboard motor from steering while sailing? I have a '97 26X. I was told that the steering bar/linkage from motor has to be connected to a stud mounted near the engine that will keep the engine on centerline. I don't see a mounting stud or post of any kind on my used 26X. Thanks

I have a 26X and sailed it for years without a quick disconnect. It didn't seem to pose any problems. When I repowered (from Nissan TLDI to Suzuki 4 stroke) BWY installed the quick disconnect for me. The new engine is a little heavier than the old one, and Todd explained how using the disconnect would make steering easier and more responsive while sailing. He was correct, of course. He did mention that, because of differences in transom design between the X and the M, the engine disconnect is more necessary with the M, since the engine is more prone to flopping over on an M. If I'm going to be sailing for an extended period, I'll use the disconnect. However, it is a bit of a hassle to engage and disengage it, so I don't always bother. Also, I've gotten into situations where I've had trouble steering the boat after a sail, when I'm trying to motor into a slip. Trouble was due to forgetting to reconnect the steering linkage. It really helps being able to turn the engine.