STEERING PROBLEM NEED HELP TROUBLESHOOTING

[casey6901]

Took our 305 Express out today for some fishing and experienced a first with the Sea Star steering system. The wheel felt very loose and had to spin it about 6 times to get the engines to even start turning. When auto pilot was on the engines seemed to respond and turn in a normal fashion so I suspect the problem is at the helm.

Can anyone weigh in on what the problem/fix might be?

Thanks for the help.

Chris

 

[cgmiller]

Chris,

My father had the same problem this summer. There are small check valves inside the helm that control the flow of oil back and forth. Sometimes they get dirt stuf in them preventling them from closing all the way and building pressure in the helm pump...they also wear out over time and with use....he took it into a local dealer and their solution was replacement of the helm as they do not get into tearing them apart and replacing the small internal pieces.....good luck!

 

[OSEAD]

First thing i would do is check the level of fluid at the helm.. If its low it may be a s simple as adding fluid and either re bleeding or simply cranking the wheel full port then full starboard a few times.. Loosen the cap at the helm after going hard over in each direction and you will hear air purge..

if the system is really loaded with air you may need to re bleed the system.


jim

 

[SwampGrizz]

Does the Sea Star system use regular hydraulic fluid or is there some sort of special fuid that Sea Star makes? I have a similar situation, and want to add some fluid.

Thanks,
SwampGrizz

 

[OSEAD]

Pretty sure they recommended their over priced version of Hydraulic fluid. They have a seastar brand sold at marine stores. I never risked mixing just bit the bullet and bought the seastar stuff.

jim