Mine was doing the same thing. It really got bad last weekend. You really had to muscle it both directions. I wanted to make sure I had not damaged my rudder due to an earlier underwater strike. I disconnected the rudder from the steering cable (one bolt), and the rudder swung easily side to side. Had to be the cable. Just had it replaced today. I can turn either direction (stop to stop) with one finger. What a difference. $455 total. I was charged for 1.5hrs labor, but took tech 2.5 hrs to complete. After he described the procedure, and all he had to do to complete the job, I am so glad I did not tackle this one myself. Get a new cable and enjoy your boat.