Under certain conditions (usually when manoeuvring in confined spaces in the marina) we have experienced an embarrassing graunching noise when operating the steering from lock to lock. Because the steering mechanism is constructed to allow ample free play within the fixed rod system we found that where the outboard steering tube came through the outboard well sidewall there was insufficient clearance between the rod and hole. I have considerably enlarged the hole to give the tube ample clearance and I am in the process of creating a rubber gaiter which will ensure that any egress of water will be minimised.