Adding power steering to a boat???

[Doug Redinger]

Is it a major job?or is it relatively easy? I know there is no simple answer to this question, but I don't know how else to ask it. Has anyone added power steering to their boat? I have a Lund Baron 2100 with the 3.7 mercruiser and the engine compartment is fairly accessible. I also have a older (1973) Larson Bowrider 186 with the mercruiser 888 (Ford 302) with the same issues. I can man-handle the steering myself, but a smaller person would find it quite difficult. I know I need the powersteering units which mounts on the front of the motor, and some hoses, pulleys and belts,but what else do I need? Any suggestions? Thanks in advance.

Doug

 

[Don S]

Re: Adding power steering to a boat???

While it's possible, it would sure be a PITA to find all the brackets, coolers, pumps, cylinders and the other parts and get them together.
I would suggest just installing a hydraulic steering system, (NOT power steering) Does the same thing.
http://www.iboats.com/Complete_Mari...ategory--**********.163333738--view_id.246971

 

[Bondo]

Re: Adding power steering to a boat???

Ayuh,....

Have you disconnected the steering Cable,+ checked to see exactly where it's binding up,....

Just Fixing what you have is easier than re-engineering the Whole Thing.....

 

[Doug Redinger]

Re: Adding power steering to a boat???

Bondo I don't think it is binding up as it steers easily when the boat is out of the water or when the boat is idle in the water. As speed increases the forces against the outdrive get greater and steering becomes more and more difficult. I do like the idea of adding hydraulic steering though!!

 

[Don S]

Re: Adding power steering to a boat???

That is why the put a trim tab on the outdrive. So you can adjust it to get to neutral steering. There is a thread in the FAQ' about adjusting it.

Hydraulic steering is nice (But expensive), and if you get used to one finger driving with hydraulic, it's hard to go back to any kind of cable steering, might look into some NFB (No Feed Back) cable systems also still not on par with hyd.