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Originally Posted by Top-Water
Hi thinkxingu, I'll take a guess that won't cost much but might be worth a try.
Without knowing exactly what the engine of your boat looks like here is where I would go next. You said you had a mercury 150, I'm familiar with that family of outboard motors, most of these outboard motors are all the same with regard to how the steering works and it's been pretty much the same design for many years. Regardless of what kind of system the steering wheel is connected to the heart of steering takes place at the "Swivel Bracket" on the engine assembly.
See if you can locate these two grease fittings on the swivel bracket and lubricate them. They are somewhat hidden from view when the entire engine is assembled. Obviously these are just "part images" but will give you a clue where to look. Often folks only lubricate the one in the first image hoping it will correct steering problems like noise and binding problems. The clunking noise could be from something binding. Despite how close it is to the steering cables or hydraulic lines that connect to the steering wheel it does nothing to lubricate the steering. It's actually the lubrication point for tilting the engine.
The one you really want to find is in the second image, that is the one that might? maybe? could? be the problem. If the steering is binding at this location you are going to feel it in the steering wheel. ( You might have to turn the motor all the way to one side or the other to find / see this one)
On a newer boat I kinda doubt that this would the problem but might be worth a try. (A lot of folks never grease this for years with no problems) The thing to look out for is even if it does not solve the problem ..... see if the problem changes its behavior ......... . Often grease will dampen or quiet a clunking noise for a while until it needs more .... maybe giving you a new clue what to look for next.
Good luck
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Approximately where to look for these grease fittings.
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Top-Water, thanks for the suggestion. I probably should have been more clear that the noise/feeling is in the steering wheel area--the engine turns smoothly, but I feel the clunk in my hands.
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