Hydraulic Steering Questions

[Ernest T]

Hi, I bought my first boat, a Hurricane Sundeck 2100 (21 ft.), with a Yamaha F150 OB in April. Boat has been great, and we have had a blast with it, but I have a couple of questions about the hydraulic steering system.

From the very first day the steering seemed a little stiff, especially turning to port. I attributed the port turn stiffness to prop torque. I didn't really pay much attention to it, but my wife would always complain about it when she drove the boat. Over the past several weeks the steering seems to be gradually getting more and more stiff turning in both directions. I've checked the lines and can see no signs of leaks. Could there be air in the system, or does hydraulic fluid need to be periodically added? It's a SeaStar system, but I've got no instructions for it. Is there a way for me to check/maintain/add fluid to the system, or is this a job for a professional? :redface:

Thanks for any help!

 

[Lyle29464]

Re: Hydraulic Steering Questions

first I would look for a kink in the lines. That would slow down the flow.

make sure your engine is turning free. On some you can just un hook the ram and see if you can move the engine side to side with little force.

last is the big problem. A bad check valve in the unit. You would need to call the factory on that.