So it sounds like the consensus is to replace the cable. I have had the boat for 9 years and it has not been replaced.
It seems like one things leads to another. Rebuild carb, changed all fuel lines, new batteries, Forward/reverse cable and now steering cable lol....

@jetboatpeformance, I may be calling you for the cable. let me see if I can install the forward/reverse cable parts i just received from you and go from there.

Thanks everyone!