Check inside the Edson steering pedestal, and under the deck at the base of the pedestal for worn components along the steering cable path. Pay particular attention to the clevis pins in the idler sheaves at the base that accomplish the 90 degree turn of the cables. If these are the older bronze ones, they can wear an astonishing amount! Edson now recommends stainless clevis pins in this location.
(Photo credit: Scott Rosenthal)