Free look isn't affected, only when a weapon/binoculars are raised and usable does this limitation occur.
Seems to only affect elevation, max/minTurn is ignored.
maxOutElev, minOutElev would be preferable. or having it use the normal elevation limits for units
SetTurretLimits also works for this and is used in the repro mission attached. But config based limits also cause it.
Repro mission steps:
Raise the rifle and attempt to look up and down. note that it's been limited to -1,1 degrees so you barely can aim.
Use the addaction to reset the turret limits, it's now using the config maxElev limit of 60 degrees, the same as when turned in and using the periscope turret.
You can enable the limits again with the addaction