Steering Cable Replacement: HELP!

[Aerobatix]

I just replaced the steering cable on my 2004 GTI LE RFI. Replacing the cable was fairly straight forward with only one real challenge....

Tightening the plastic retaining nut on the rear of the cable exit from the hull. The space is very tight and I could not get good access to tighten the nut very well. I used an adjustable wrench and put a screw driver through the hole in the end of the handle to use as leverage. I thought I got it tight.

First time in the water the steering is fine for about 5 minutes then the steering became non-existent. I stopped and jumped in the water to see of the nut had come off and it had. I tried to get it back on with my hands while floating in the lake but could not.

Get home and find that the nut actually broke off leaving only about 1/4" of threads on the nut. So I think the nut loosened and then was broken off by the cable putting pressure on the loose nut when trying to push the cable during steering.

Here's my question, What method and/or tool is required to tighten this plastic nut? Is there a source for a special tool for this purpose? Should a locktite product (which one) be used on this plastic nut?

I ordered a new nut and retaining halves and rubber seal/washer today.

Hope someone can help me out as I am excited to get back on the water!!

Thanks!

Rob

 

[Dr Honda]

You overtightened it. A plastic nut should just be snugged up enough to seal.

 

[CAVPILOT]

WOW...same issue

oh SNAP!!!
Mine did the exact same thing, however, mine broke off due to age (2000 model XP) and I am now in the process of SLOWLY chipping the remaining plastic out of the fitting. I'm afraid I'm damaging the female threads in the process, but WTF ya' gonna do??? :willy_nilly: I thought about pulling the entire rear assembly off, but daaaaaang, that is a LOT of work and the long weekend is upon me!!!
Did you come up with anything? :banghead: Hopefully a "simple" fix???
Zach