Steering cable replacement

[Samtitus]

I’m trying to replace my rotary steering cable and helm in my 2018 22 SX. The steering cable goes from the outboard under the deck through a grommet on the side in order to hide the cable. But As I’m trying to get the rod out of the outboard motor, the grommet placement is angled in a way that it won’t allow me to pull the rod straight out to get it fully out of the outboard. Anyone have any tips that would allow better access? Doesn’t seem like it should be this difficult but here we are.

 

[DVW]

Try loosing the outboard mounting bolts to improve alignment.

 

[Samtitus]

Do I need to hang the motor in order to do that? Was trying to do the job on my lift in the water, was going great until this angle issue

 

[DVW]

I am a little unclear how I did the job in my garage. I do remember the very issue you have uncovered. I would have supported motor on lower skeg and than loosened (more on one side) mounting bolts sufficient to gain needed alignment. I have used a similar process to raise or lower motor while standing in shallow water.