Small boat hydraulic steering

[SAUERKRAUT]

Thank you for replies. My application is a 115 hp., and well within the supposed range of this less expensive Baystar hydraulic system. Maybe there is a smaller helm pump with this cheaper Baystar system;and therefore, a larger no. of turns lock to lock on the steering wheel? But most of the time we're going straight.

I like my hydraulics on my 17' Whaler even though it's overkill. I agree that I spend some time, periodically, on hydraulic system seals, leaks, refills, and repairs.

[macojoe]

I can't help as I am new to hydraulic steering, But I have a question, mine seems to work fine, but man it has to be 6 turns lock to lock! Not sure on the real number of turns but man its a lot.
Is this normal on some??

[Gary]

I have installed both, and the baystar system is just a lighter duty helm and the outboard piston is a little different. There both made by teleflex. IMHO there both good units.

[Rockfish9]

I installed a baystar system a number of years ago on my 18' Jon Dory... powered by a 115 Merc....Best investment I ever made...no more fighting steering torque.. the biggest advantage i gained was getting into my slip, I have to parrellel park in a limited access mud slip on a corner... spinning the wheel that fast to back in and change thrust direction with cable steering was a tough go.... with hydraulic.. it's never a challenge...

[numbskull]

Switch the Sea Star to your bigger boat and replace it with the smaller unit you cheap baztard.