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The proper steering system is a critical factor in achieving optimal boat
handling and safe operation. The combination of engine horsepower, propeller
torque, hull design and boat speed applies different loads on the steering
system. As the resulting steering forces vary considerably from boat to boat and
motor to motor, maximum care must be taken to ensure the steering system is the
proper one for your application.
The following points have been developed to assist you in making a system
selection and to alert potential problem areas.
- Steering forces increase remarkably when the speed and horsepower of the
boat increase, the torque of large outboard engines may cause a boat to turn
sharply from a straight heading or make it difficult to bring out of a turn.
Mechanical steering systems must have enough mechanical advantage for ease
of operation, and the steering cable has to be installed free of kinks,
tight bends or obstructions, to let the boat driver to manoever the boat
easily at all speed.
- Corrosion of steering cables can lead to hard operation or complete
seizure. According to the engine manufacturer’s specification, the cable
output end and the engine tilt tube should be carefully cleaned and coated
with a marine lubricant, with this simple routine you will minimize
corrosion build up.
- The steering cable should be regularly inspected for cracks or cuts, if
found the cable should be replaced.
- If a boat is not going to be used for long periods, we recommend to
remove the cable output end from the engine tilt tube and properly prepare
for storage.
- The routing of steering cables is another important consideration,
cables should be routed with as few bends as possible and with a bend radius
above the minimum achievable, moreover excessive cable length results in
excess bend radius, contributing to backlash and steering inefficiency.
- Larger boats with displacement hulls and inboard rudders or sterndrive
engines not equipped with power steering can create very high steering
loads, exceeding the capacity of mechanical systems. Hydraflex hydraulic
steering systems are recommended for these type of boat.
SELECTION OF STEERING SYSTEMS
HOW TO MEASURE FOR NEW
STEERING CABLE LENGTH
HOW TO SELECT YOUR ULTRAFLEX
REPLACEMENT STEERING CABLE
HOW TO MEASURE FOR
REPLACEMENT STEERING CABLES
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