"Slop" in the steering

[BIGnUGLY]

My steering seems to be getting loose. The motor can swing from side to side several inches without affecting the wheel, and there is almost a full turn in the wheel until the motor moves. It seems to me this should be an easy fix, I'll take a look this evening, but if someone would like to give me a head start, I'd be very appreciative.

[onejacker]

I'm guessing its hydraulic steering. Sounds like air in the system, although a few inches of movement is a bit extreme for that. Is the system full of fluid?

[leetke]

Sounds like a small leak...had one in mine. Needs to be "bled" to get the air out. Cheap enough fix...was around $50 to have someone do it since I do not have the tools.

[hhi angler]

If it is sea star go to there web site full instructions. I did mine about 15 min. with the help of another person one to turn the wheel and one to open the bleed valve.

[Bartzini]

I had the same thing happen after leaving the boat sit for a month. i bled the system and filled it with fluid, and i havent had that issue since.

Scary as hell heading down a channel with markers on each side, wind had me heading straight for a pole at about 50mph...and i coudlnt get any response out of the steering for a about a half turn each way...

[BIGnUGLY]

I bled the lines and I'm good as new. $17 for a rinky dink plastic fitting to go from the hydraulic fluid quart can to the fitting by the wheel and $16 bucks a quart for the oil was a ripoff, but it worked and I'm good to go, so I guess I'm happy.

[spearnreel]

And if it is indeed in need of bleeding, any local boat dealership should have a spare filler hose to give you, as Teleflex sends them with every kit.