It has been a long time since I owned a larger o/b so I forget what the steering is like. My 115 HP Merc steering is stiff when planing. It steers easily when at idle or turned off so I don't think the cause would be over tightening of a friction device if any. The cable is well greased so I figure it is just the result of engine thrust but I would like the experience of non power steering O/B owners.