World Cat 280DC-X - 5.4 Steering Controls; 5.5 Steering Maintenance - Twin Engines

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5.4 Steering Controls
Catamarans oer unsurpassed steering control. The wide spacing of the engines, advanced steering
components, and handling characteriscs of the World Cat hull give operators exceponal maneuverability
in even the ghtest spaces.
Because of the superior tracking abilies of the World Cat hull, over-steering can present a problem,
especially for owners accustomed to operang convenonal boats. Convenonal vessels have a tendency to
lose tracking abilies in rough and following sea condions, making constant course correcons necessary.
However, catamarans do not exhibit those traits and require operators to take a “hands o” approach. To do
so, relax your grip and resist the urge to make constant correcons.
5.5 Steering Maintenance - Twin Engines
The design of a catamaran hull requires a special steering system which features a “liquid e-bar”, as
opposed to the mechanical version used in convenonal boats. For this reason your World Cat is equipped
with a hydraulic steering system, featuring steering cylinders mounted on each engine and a steering system
valve. This system enables both engines to respond in unison to adjustments at the helm.
In order to maintain the excellent steering characteriscs of your boat, occasionally you will need to adjust
the steering system to realign the motors (known as motor toe). To do so, follow these instrucons:
• Using the helm, center the starboard motor.
• Find the steering system valve, located under the inspecon port on the center of the transom.
• Open the valve by rotang it 90 degrees (the handle will be parallel to the valve body when
open). This will isolate the port engine, so that it can be adjusted manually.
• Center the port motor manually; then close the steering system ball valve and reinstall the
inspecon port.
Similar to hydraulic braking systems in an automobile, it may become necessary to bleed the steering system
occasionally to remove air from the lines. We have provided diagrams of the steering system in secon 5.6
and 5.7, and the Teleex™ owner’s manual in your Owner’s Porolio. Use these resources, and your dealer,
to keep the steering system in excellent working order. Be aware, these are roune maintenance procedures
and are not covered under warranty by World Cat.
!!! CAUTION
Rounely check hydraulic uid levels and all connecons for leaks or any sign of mechanical failure.
Lubricate all mechanical parts at least annually with high quality marine grease. Failure to do so may
result in impaired or unresponsive steering.