Stiff Steering

[hibbert6]

I test-drove a 20' boat today. Loved it. It has a 150hp Evinrude outboard. But steering the thing required great effort - I practically had to wrestle the wheel to initiate any kind of turn. It didn't fight me, and there was no vibration. I heard no scraping. It just felt like a power-steering car with a broken belt to the PS pump. It has hydraulic, but not power, steering.

The salesman said this was actually desirable. But my wife won't like it at all (meaning I won't get to ski!). The price is low enough that I could afford some modifications. Any ideas what I'm up against, here?

Dave

 

[NYBo]

Re: Stiff Steering

The salesman is just trying to move inventory. You should NOT have to wrestle with the wheel. Something is wrong. Did this occur at all speeds?

 

[hibbert6]

Re: Stiff Steering

The salesman is just trying to move inventory. You should NOT have to wrestle with the wheel. Something is wrong. Did this occur at all speeds?

Mostly when on plane, but slow maneuvering wasn't exactly easy, either. Circling around to pick up a skier or doing figure 8's for the tubers would be tough.

Dave

 

[Fireman431]

Re: Stiff Steering

With hydraulic steering, you should be able to move the wheel with 2 fingers at any given speed. If you get a good enough deal on the boat, swap out the hydraulic steering assembly for a new one. There are a few different areas that be the cause of your trouble. If it's low on fluid, where did it go? It's a sealed unit, so that means it's leaking somewhere. It could just be a bunch of old grease/dirt/crap interfering with the ram operation. There could be an issue in the steering head behind the wheel. If it's malfunctioning, screw repairing it. Get a new one for peace of mind. You'll dump about $500 for a decent one. Better yet, have the dealer fix it contingent on the sale.

http://www.marinedeal.com/product_p/hk4645.htm

 

[NYBo]

Re: Stiff Steering

I wouldn't buy the boat unless they fix the problem. Many boats are more difficult to steer on plane, but this sounds abnormal to me.

 

[hibbert6]

Re: Stiff Steering

Thanks, people, for the advice! I will request they repair it to make the sale.

Dave