Extra Long Gear Cables

[Vincentc]

The port helm gear cable broke so I've undertaken to replace the gear cables for the helm and FB.
I found the measurements for the FB cables (28 and 32 ft.); however, I notice that there are large loops of extra cable.
Over 6' extra cable for the port gear shifter and 8' extra for the STB gear.
Any thought on why the extra cable or whether I should replace the FB cables with cables than Hatteras used?

 

[SEVEN]

Someone must have installed the wrong length in your cables. There is no need to have that much extra. I’d call Sams tomorrow and verify the correct length and install that length. It’s an easy job as long as prior owners didn’t put a lot of wire ties to prevent easy passage. Make sure you have the connector but.

 

[sgharford]

Just a heads up. I ordered new upper and lower helm cables for my 1976 43DC from Sams several years ago. Since they knew the lengths I thought it only proper to buy from them (make sure you tell them engine and transmission, but sure they will ask). Anyway, if my memory serves me right, the lower helm cables appeared to be 2' too long and the upper cables 2' too short (was able to make both work, but did not follow the same path as old ones). I'm pretty sure the cables I replaced at the time were original, could not find the markings on the red outer sheath indicating actual length. When replacing, zip tie and tape the new end to the old end and pull through, saves a ton of time and aggravation.

 

[jim rosenthal]

Sometimes the cables are longer than they look like they need to be in order to increase the radius of turns and reduce drag in the cable. Long gentle bends work better, I have found. Also the cables should be secured every foot or two to reduce wasted motion. You may be able to find the actual length of the original cable stamped on one of the ends- Morse, in particular, did that. And you will need a threaded sleeve to connect the new one to the old one, and a lot of duct tape and Wd40, too...

 

[Vincentc]

Thanks for the comments
I spoke to Sam and he explained that due to transport from the factory with the FB detached, Hatteras used longer cables.
He confirmed that I can shorten them from the length stamped on the cables and I've ordered new shorter cables from Sams.

It was kind of curious that after the helm cable broke I had a problem shifting into reverse using the FB controls.
I discovered that the helm control adapter on the broken cable was blocking movement of the cable to allow shifting into reverse.