Hydraulic Steering

[Sailfishcc]

Is it normal for this type of steering to seem stiff when trolling, powering up? Loosens uo at plane.

[Glen E]

Sailfishcc - 10/13/2006 11:48 PM

Is it normal for this type of steering to seem stiff when trolling, powering up? Loosens uo at plane.

not really - a hydraulic system that is free of air, properly filled and in good working order is almost "1 hand smooth" all the way thru the operating range. I would check to see if you have the proper amt of fluid and free of air first.......

[littletunny]

Sailfishcc - 10/13/2006 10:48 PM

Is it normal for this type of steering to seem stiff when trolling, powering up? Loosens uo at plane.

Mine does the same thing. Easy on plane, a little stiff at trolling.

[YankeeBoater]

Glen E - 10/13/2006 11:52 PM
not really - a hydraulic system that is free of air, properly filled and in good working order is almost "1 hand smooth" all the way thru the operating range.

I have a small rig (19 foot/F115), but mine is also very easy to turn at any speed, from neutral to planing - I can just palm the rim of the wheel with one hand to turn it...

[prockvoan]

Also check your drive cyl to see if it is clean.

[HullSlap]

Mine is easy to turn at trolling speed and on plane. The only difference I notice is that it turns easier to starboard than port at high speed with the motor trimmed in a bit.

[capndick]

Mine is silky smooth all the way up to my top speed of 8 knots, LOL
I can turn either helm with 1 finger. Ought to be no speed related difference.
Dick

[greyg8r]

I can steer my 25 with hydraulic steering and a suicide knob a whole lot easier than my 17 Whaler with manual steering. I can't turn my Whaler with a suicide knob.