Bertram 540 - Driving System Maintenance

540
AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT ON BOARD
Studio ti 03312 540-04usa
76
5
5.3 DRIVING SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
Ordinary service
Steering maintenance requirements will vary, depending on usage of the
yacht and climate.
Bi-annual inspection by a qualified marine mechanic is required.
− Remove, clean and grease the tilt tube annually with quality marine
grease. Lubricate cylinder support rod, support bracket holes and all
moving parts.
− Check the steering fluid level in the helm, it should be maintained at
no less than 1/2” below the bottom of the filler cap threads.
− Replace any hoses showing signs of wear and remove the cause or
re-route hoses. Check fittings and seal locations for leaks or damage
and service as necessary.
− If you have installed a jack plate make sure that there isn’t any
interference between the jack plate and your steering cylinder. If there
is interference, it may occur during full tilt.
Lift restrictors or a Tilt Stop Switch - should be installed. Please consult
engine manufacturer.
Failure to comply with maintenance checks may result in loss of steering,
causing property damage and/or personal injury.
Oil level & system check
Helm mounted with wheel shaft completely horizontal must be filled to
bottom of filler hole at all times.
Do not allow oil level to drop more than 1/4” (6.3 mm). Helms mounted on
a 20-degree angle or with the wheel shaft vertical should have an oil level
within 1/2” (12.7 mm) of hole.
Check oil level periodically. At this time the steering system should be
checked for proper connections of hose, tube and fittings, possible leaks,
and the need for air removal from the system.
To do so, turn steering wheel (any one on a multisteering station) and
pressurize very hard to port.
Apply enough force to the wheel to exceed pressure relief valve pressure.
You will not harm the helm or the system. While pressure is maintained
on steering wheel, check all port (left) fittings and line connections. Repeat
procedure by turning wheel to starboard. Watch the oil level in the helm
pump when pressurizing the steering wheel in either hard over positions.
If there is no obvious drop in oil level, air was removed.
If there is an obvious drop in oil level, you are compressing air and further
filling and purging is required.
Follow steps 1 through 5 as shown on the next page.
If no leaks are obvious, your steering system is ready for use.
S
CAUTION
If leaks are found, correct before using. Failure to correct a leak can
lower the oil level in system, resulting in loss of steering.