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2/Helm Control Systems
2.1 General
The helm station is the control center for the boat. The main control systems are the engine
throttle and shift controls, the steering system, and the trim tab controls. These provide the
operator the ability to control speed, direction, boat trim, and attitude. Each manufacturer provides
manuals on the operation and use of their systems.
2.2 Steering System
General
The manual which comes with your steering system provides specific information on your steering
system.
The SeaStar® helm pump is an axial piston pump. It has a built-in lock valve to prevent the
steering load of the engines from feeding back to the boat operator. When the steering wheel is
turned clockwise, hydraulic fluid is pumped out of the helm unit, into the starboard hydraulic line
and then into the cylinder. As the fluid is pumped into one side of the steering cylinder, an equal
volume of fluid is displaced from the opposite side, moving the steering cylinder body to port. The
cylinder body is connected directly to the engine’s stern arm, which moves the front of the engine
to port and puts the boat into a starboard turn. The fluid displaced from the cylinder returns to the
helm pump. Please see diagram in the manual’s appendix for a visual representation of this
system. In the event of a power assist failure, the steering system will still function normally but
in
a
manual mode, which requires greater steering effort by the operator.
*NOTE: Depending on engine manufacturer, some steering systems are furnished with power
assist pumps. Please refer to the engine owner’s manual for complete instructions on their brand.
While running at slow speeds, most boats tend to wander slightly back and forth. Keeping the
wheel in the center without overcompensating for the slight wandering will prevent over steering
and reduce the tendency to wander.
Steering System Maintenance
Routine system inspection should occur regularly. Cables, hoses, linkage and helm assemblies
should be inspected for wear, corrosion, cracking, or deterioration. Cleaning and light grease
should be applied to all exposed metal parts and other damaged or deteriorated parts should be
replaced as soon as possible. Cleaning fluids containing ammonia, acids or any other corrosive
ingredients MUST NOT be used for cleaning any part of the steering system. Failure to comply
will cause serious damage to the system, which could result in an accident or injury.
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