4747
Helm Control Systems
4.6 Steering System
Power Assist Hydraulic Steering
Power assisted steering systems on twin engine
boats without the joystick option are hydraulic and
is comprised of two hydraulic circuits: a manual
system, which is the control element, and a hy-
draulic power assist pump, which is the working
element.
The manual system is hydraulic and made of three
main components: the helm assembly, hydraulic
hoses and the steering cylinders. The uid res-
ervoir for the system is built into the power assist
pump assembly and the helm acts as a pump.
Turning of the steering wheel, pumps uid through
the hydraulic hoses and activates the hydraulic
steering cylinders causing the motors to turn. A
slight clicking sound may be heard as the wheel
is turned. This sound is the opening and closing
of valves in the helm pump unit and is normal.
The power system is an electronically controlled, 12
volt hydraulic pump that boosts the uid pressure
being sent from the helm pump to the steering
cylinders to provide “Power” for the steering system
which results in much easier eort at the steering
wheel, even under heavy loads. In the event of
a power loss or failure of the hydraulic steering
pump, the steering system will automatically revert
to a manual hydraulic system. The manual system
operates as described previously in this section and
will require more eort on the steering wheel to
turn the motors.
Steering Cylinders and Tie Bar
The outboards are coupled near the tiller arms by
a tie bar and controlled by one or two steering
cylinders, depending on the options selected. The
engines must be aligned to provide maximum sta-
bility on straight ahead runs and proper tracking
through corners. Dual outboards are aligned so
the engines are towed in slightly (.25” to .5”) at
the propellers. Engine or steering system damage
may require the engines to be realigned.
Electronic Steering (Optional)
Your boat could be equipped with an electronic
steering system that provides precise and respon-
sive steering. Electronic steering is available with
or without a joystick control.
The system is 100% electronic and there are no
mechanical connections between the steering
wheel and the engines. Each engine is turned
Steering Cylinders & Tie Bar
Steering System Power Assist Pump
independently allowing improved tight quarter
maneuvering and the convenience of an optional
Joystick control at the helm.
For safety and improved tight quarter maneuver-
ing, the controlling software on most systems
senses engine speed and adjusts maximum steer-
ing angle and steering wheel resistance to preset
limits as the engine speed increases or decreases.
Steering angles and steering wheel resistance at
specic engine speeds are programed into the
system at the factory and are not adjustable.
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