Steering very stiff 50 HP four stroke

[tony_dix]

We have a 50 HP four stroke Yamaha outboard and the steering has become very stiff. I have tried to lubricate the bearings via the zirk fitting on the downtube but grease only appears from the lower bearing. No grease is evident on the upper bearing where I suspect the trouble lies.
Just wondering if anyone has any ideas about a cure which does not involve lifting the power head off the lower unit.
Thanks for any advice

[boats.net]

Take the steering link arm loose from motor and see if motor turns freely, if does then remove steering cable from tilt tube on engine, clean out tilt tube and regrease cable and tube, reinstall cable.