Steering helm concern

[Bdsp1234]

Hey guys , who’s steering helm does Grady use ? On my 226, I just started noticing that while turning the wheel towards right while at cruising speed, I am hearing a clicking noise in the helm. Boat turns fine but I am concerned what this might be. At slow speeds or troll, no clicking at all.

Any ideas?

 

[MA208]

Likely Sea Star. Is it hydraulic? Look for a small nut on top of the helm behind your wheel. Fluid goes in there, make sure it’s adequate.

 

[Parthery]

Sounds like either your fluid is low or one of the pistons in the helm is sticking.

Check the fluid first by removing the fill cap on top of the helm. If it’s low, add fluid. If it’s not, start thinking about replacing the helm.

boatsteer.com is an authorized rebuilder of them and they offer a 1 year warranty. Cheaper than a new one.

 

[Fishtales]

SeaStar is correct. First thing to do is check the fluid at the helm. There should be a small circular fill cap. Fill to the top as needed and work the when back and forth with the cap open to work any air out. Can be done unpowered. Then fill near the top.

 

[trapper]

Not want to hijack Bdsp but......While on the subject, Can anyone tell me why my SeaStar hydraulic steering appears to stick on hard over. It takes a quick pull at the wheel to bring it back. I never really steer that far over, so not a big issue. I have bled the system to death, no bubbles and good instant reaction from wheel to outboard, with no hesitation. Anyone had this situation? Thanks trapper

 

[Bdsp1234]

I’ve check the fluid, and added some. It did take a little, by rotating the wheel. It’s only a problem when steering right.

 

[Doc Stressor]

Try bleeding the system. If a little air gets in there it can feel sticky.

 

[blindmullet]

Bleed the system--google solo seastar bleed.

 

[Legend]

Mine used to develop the clicking when I needed fluid. After a while I got sick of adding fluid and did some trouble shooting, found the that I had a slow leak in one of the hydraulic seals by the engine. New seal fixed the clicking and leaking permanently.