4949
Helm Control Systems
Generally, periodic lubrication of all moving parts
and connections with a light waterproof grease is
in order. Check the hydraulic hoses and ttings
for chang, rub marks and leaks. Replace if nec-
essary. Failure to do so could lead to steering
system failure that would result in loss of control.
When new or after repairs, hydraulic steering
systems may need to have all air purged from
the system. Only use hydraulic steering uid
recommended by the steering system manu-
facturer. Dicult steering and premature seal
failure can result if the wrong uid is used in the
steering system. Review the information provided
by the steering system manufacturer for proper
specications and details on system service and
maintenance.
Engine Lubrication
Refer to the engine owner’s manual for mainte-
nance and lubrication instructions for the outboard
engines.
Trim Tab Maintenance
The trim tab actuators are electric and require no
routine maintenance except to periodically inspect
the tab actuators for corrosion or marine growth
and test the system to ensure that it is operating
properly.
Marine growth can interfere with the proper opera-
tion of the trim tab planes and actuators. To reduce
problems due to marine growth, always return the
trim tabs to the full “UP” position after operating
the boat and periodically inspect and clean marine
growth from the actuators and planes.
If the boat is kept in the water, the trim tab planes
must be equipped with a sacricial anode to pre-
vent galvanic corrosion. Galvanic corrosion is the
corrosion process occurring when dierent metals
are submerged in an electrolyte. Seawater is an
electrolyte and submerged metal components
must be properly protected. The anodes will need
to be changed when they are 75% of their original
size (25% depleted). Refer to the Routine Main-
tenance chapter of this manual for information on
maintaining sacricial anodes.
To discourage any marine growth on the tabs or
actuators, antifouling paint can be applied. When
applying paint to the actuator, make sure it is fully
retracted. Do not paint the stainless ram above
the area that is exposed when fully retracted. The
bottom paint will damage the O-ring seals when
the ram is retracted and allow seawater to enter
the actuator motor. When painting the trim tabs,
do not apply paint to the sacricial anodes or the
mounting surface under the anode. The sacricial
anode must have full metal to metal contact with
the trim tab plane or it will become ineective.
Contact your dealer or the trim tab manufacturer
for information regarding the correct bottom paint
for the trim tabs.
Refer to the trim tab owner’s manual for additional
maintenance information, specications, trouble-
shooting and operating instructions.
Typical SeaStar Steering Fill Plug On Console
Trim Tab Plane, Actuator & Anode
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