Note: Deep vee boats have a tendency to
“hunt” (wander from side to side) at slow
speeds with the steering wheel held straight
ahead. This is a normal occurrence and can be
minimized by anticipating boat movement and
giving a slight turn of the steering wheel in the
opposite direction.
Note: If the steering system needs repair, your
dealer has the correct tools. Do not try to ser-
vice the system yourself.
STEERING SYSTEM
The steering system on your boat does not have
a rudder position indicator. To find the rudders’
center position:
1. Turn the wheel to port until it stops.
2. Now turn the wheel to starboard until it
stops, counting the number of revolutions
as you turn.
3. Divide the number of revolutions by two.
4. Turn the wheel to port that number of revo-
lutions to center the rudders.
MECHANICAL STEERING SYSTEM
If your boat is equipped with a mechanical
steering system, periodic lubrication is required
to insure a smooth operating system.
The mechanical system consists of a push–pull
cable. This cable should be checked for proper
lubrication and alignment. There should be no
binding or looseness. Cable and attachments
should be checked for wear, rust, or corrosion,
and be properly lubricated. Check the anchor
post at the aft end of the cable to be sure it is
secure and free from rust and corrosion.
HYDRAULIC STEERING SYSTEM
Your boat may have a hydraulic steering system.
This system has four basic elements: helm
pump, reservoir, relief valve, and cylinder. The
steering wheel is mounted to the shaft of the
helm pump. Turning the steering wheel pumps
hydraulic fluid to the steering cylinder. Extra
hydraulic fluid and pressure head maintained by
the reservoir prevents air from entering the sys-
tem. An air pressure gauge on the reservoir
shows that the reservoir is charged to the
proper pressure. To keep dirt from entering the
system, hydraulic fluid in the reservoir passes
through a filter as it is flows out of the reser-
voir. A relief valve protects both the mechanical
portion of the rudder (in case the rudder strikes
a hard object) and the hydraulic system.
This is a manual hydraulic system, not a power
steering system. The effort required to turn the
wheel will increase as the system is called on
to exert more force on the rudder. At no time,
should anyone expect this system to turn as
easily as a car’s power steering.
Check the level of hydraulic fluid in the reservoir
regularly and replenish if necessary. The fill cap
behind the wheel has a gauge indicating the
fluid level. All other maintenance should be per-
formed by your dealer.
STERN DRIVE THROTTLE/
SHIFT CONTROLS
The information in this section deals with the
controls on boats equipped with stern drives.
The controls vary depending on the number of
engines your boat has. Be sure to consult the
engine and controls manuals for information
specific to the controls on your boat.
SINGLE LEVER ENGINE CONTROL
A single lever engine control operates as both a
gear shifter and a throttle for a single engine
(Figure 9.1). To shift, move the lever into the
first 15° of travel. Advance the lever beyond 15°
9-3
FIGURE 9.1 STERN DRIVE
ENGINE CONTROL
Comments to this Manuals