Outdrive1

I have a 30' Kachina with a 502 mag, Lightning headers and a Vortech supercharger from ASM. The boat does 75 easy on GPS. I was thinking of adding external steering this winter for safety. I would like to do the work myself. I hate having my boat uncovered and in someones shop for 3 weeks while strangers crawl in and out of it. How hard is it to add, is the full hydraulic system even more complicated? Is one ram sufficicent? (the boat isn't that fast) How much should I spend and what brand is the best value for my buck. If I buy a used setup off the classified section what parts do I need. Lots of questions but I know someone will have most of the answers.
One more thought, if I destroy my drive and upgrade to an XR (Bravo 1 now), will the system still be compatible?

Sean H

yes...

Boatally Insane

iTrader: (1)

Call Brian Alfrey 513-407-0215 at XS performance. Dual ram full hydraulic for $2650.00 is the best "bang for the buck" i've found...


Doug Schiller

Outdrive1

what's involved on the installation? Is it something a normal person can do?

US1 Fountain

iTrader: (1)

If you are mechanically inclined and not afraid to drill holes in the transom, you can do it.

Basically remove the existing steering helm and cable, install hyd helm, lines, mount rams and bleed the lines.

Outdrive1

What about compatability with other drives? Also is it something I really need? Does my speed warrant it?

Sydwayz

iTrader: (1)

Yes, you definately want hydraulic steering. I had Imco single ram on my Sonic with a single, and have Marine Machine dual ram on my Active Thunder with twins.

There is a new system out, not sure who makes it, but the hydraulic lines are only in the engine compartment, and it is fly-by-wire meaning electrical connection up to your steering wheel. Its pretty trick; saw it demo'd at the Miami Boat Show. Coolest thing about it is you can change your steering wheel to drive angle rate electronically. I imagine this would be much easier to install.

Outdrive1

Any idea on price?

WildThing

Those Kachina's look cool. I here they ride & run well too.

As far as price, I would call or email Brian Alfrey at XS Performance direct.
XS Performance Marine
Brian Alfrey
6688B Georgetown Lane
Middletown, Ohio 45042
1-513-737-0588
[email protected]
He goes by Alfster on OSO but he is rarely online.
However he always answers the phone.

His hyd. system is priced much lower than the others.
Good stuff, a very clean looking set up & extra heavy duty!
His kit comes with everything you need, best bang for the buck out there!
I like how he has the steel braided lines running through the ram mounts...it gives a very clean look to the installed system! Most of the other guys use rubber hoses.
I've seen several members on OSO who have installed these systems by themselves. Plus Brian will always give you whatever support you need.
I did a search and found these pics of the XS Performance system.
Brian will treat you right, he is pretty fast and his systems are top notch.

http://www.xsperformancemarine.biz/

jcap

anything that does over 70mph should have hyd steering!! never mess with safety, I would put it on anything that does 50!