Loose steering 200 Yamaha

[robalo2160]

I've got a 2003 200 HP Yamaha outboard on a 21 foot 1993 Robalo, and the hydraulic steering is awfully loose. To move the motor from full deflection on one side to full deflection on the other side yakes 5-6 full turns of the wheel. While cruising, if I want to make a 10 degree heading change, I may need to turn the wheel 1/2 to 3/4 turn, then the boat may jump 30 degrees. After which, I swing the wheel 1-2 turns in the opposite direction, and the boat swings 20 degrees back. What's going on here?

 

[JB]

Re: Loose steering 200 Yamaha

Howdy, J Dub.<br /><br />Welcome to iboats. <br /><br />Check this out: http://forums.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=31;t=001394 <br /><br />Then go look in the Boat Forum.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Loose steering 200 Yamaha

When you turn the wheel while under way does the motor move as you move the wheel or do you turn the wheel a 1/2 turn and then the motor moves?

 

[Bondo]

Re: Loose steering 200 Yamaha

Sounds like it's Air-bound,+ Needs to be Bled........

 

[robalo2160]

Re: Loose steering 200 Yamaha

Originally posted by Dhadley:<br /> When you turn the wheel while under way does the motor move as you move the wheel or do you turn the wheel a 1/2 turn and then the motor moves?

The motor does not always move with the wheel. The motor catches every 1/2 to every 3/4 turn, then jumps a bit.<br /><br />J Dub

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Loose steering 200 Yamaha

Sounds like it may be low on fluid. Another thing comes to mind but lets hope it's something simple.<br /><br />Be sure to use only the aircraft grade fluid recommended if it is low.

 

[robalo2160]

Re: Loose steering 200 Yamaha

what is 'aircraft grade'? Can I pick this up at a reputable marine supply store?