The proper steering system is a critical factor in achieving optimal boat handling and safe operation. The
combination of engine horsepower, propeller torque, hull design and boat speed applies different loads on the
steering system. As the resulting steering forces vary considerably from boat to boat and motor to motor, maximum
care must be taken to ensure the steering system is the proper one for your application.
The following points have been developed to assist you in making a system selection and to alert potential
problem areas.
- Steering forces increase remarkably when the speed and horsepower of the boat increase, the torque of large
outboard engines may cause a boat to turn sharply from a straight heading or make it difficult to bring out
of a turn. Mechanical steering systems must have enough mechanical advantage for ease of operation, and the
steering cable has to be installed free of kinks, tight bends or obstructions, to let the boat driver to
manoever the boat easily at all speed.
- The routing of steering cables is another important consideration. Cables should be routed with as few
bends as possible and with a bend radius above the minimum achievable, moreover excessive cable length
results in excess bend radius, contributing to backlash and steering inefficiency.
- Larger boats with displacement hulls and inboard rudders or sterndrive engines not equipped with power
steering can create very high steering loads, exceeding the capacity of mechanical systems. Our hydraulic
steering systems are recommended for this type of boats.
HOW TO MEASURE FOR NEW STEERING CABLE LENGTH
MANTAINANCE OF THE STEERING SYSTEM:
- Corrosion of steering cables can lead to hard operation or complete seizure. According to the engine
manufacturer’s specification, the cable output end and the engine tilt tube should be carefully cleaned and
coated with a marine lubricant, with this simple routine you will minimize corrosion build up.
- The steering cable should be regularly inspected for cracks or cuts, if any should be found the cable must
be replaced.
- If a boat is not going to be used for long periods, we recommend to remove the cable output end from the
engine tilt tube and properly prepare for storage.
HOW TO SELECT YOUR ULTRAFLEX REPLACEMENT STEERING CABLE
HOW TO MEASURE FOR REPLACEMENT STEERING CABLES
