Mercury 540 Bravo - Steering Wheel Turns Hard or Jerky; Seawater Pressure Is below Specification; Seawater Pressure Is above Specification

Steering Wheel Turns Hard or Jerky
Possible Cause Remedy
Low power steering pump fluid level.
Refill system with fluid and check for
leaks.
Sepentine belt loose or damaged. Replace and/or adjust.
Insufficient lubrication on steering
system components.
Lubricate.
Loose or missing steering fasteners
or parts.
Check all parts and fasteners. If any
are loose or missing, see authorized
Mercury Marine dealer immediately.
Contaminated power steering fluid. Drain and replace.
Seawater Pressure Is Below Specification
Possible Cause
Remedy
Insufficient water supply.
Check if seacock is completely open.
Check supply hoses for obstruction.
Check for external water pick‑up obstruction.
Check for sea strainer obstruction.
Check condition of sea pump.
Seawater Pressure Is Above Specification
Possible Cause
Remedy
High boat speed causing high ram
pressure.
Install a sea strainer with a bypass
relief valve.
TROUBLESHOOTING
106 eng