Grog

Guys_

Is it worth the extra $900 or so to go twin ram hydraulic steering over single ram? For example: Mayfair dual ram full hydraulic = $3300...... single ram = $2400.

I think the performance difference is related to the symmetry in effort required to turn one direction compared to the other. Right?

The boat is a Formula 271 Fastech....low to mid 70's. Thanks.

Griff

I would go dual ram.

VetteLT193

I have yet to hear any scientific reason for going dual ram on a single engine V. I'd save the money on the 2nd ram and go full hydraulic from the helm back.

If it were me, in your speeds, I'd go single. A fast cat hull, single engine, running 100+ I'd go dual for a couple of reasons.

DMOORE

This may not be a scientific reason for dual rams, but there was a thread not too long ago showing broken gimbals, and the dual ram setups actually holding the drive in place. If you were to come off a wave at an angle, and break a gimbal, there is more of a chance the dual ram set up will keep the drive in place. Also I believe it helps stabilize the drive and and absorbs side loads as well. I think a lot of people are jaded, when it comes to speeds that modern boats run. Especially if your running hard in rough water, 70's is moving. Spend the money for the extra bit of safety.

Just my.02 pesos.


Darrell.

Hardin Marine

Unfortunately there isn't a scientific stand point or speed # since since water conditions and driver style also play such a role in this area. In your particular V-hull application we reference a single ram full hydraulic system will work fine as this system meets 90% of a single engine V-hulls demands nearing the 80mph mark. .

For those of you who haven't checked we are revolutionizing the hydraulic steering market our Mayfair steering dominates most applications through new designs and lower than ever pricing. for example the pricing referenced in this thread is for "Full Hydraulic" systems.

So if your considering upgrading to hydraulic steering make sure and give us a look.

Sincerely,

Hardin Marine

32storm

I would go dual ram and a full system. I installed a Hardin system on my Hustler a few years ago. Nice product, and it was the best bang for the buck.

ZXXX Donzi

In the 70's you will be fine with a single. I have a single hardin system on my Donzi X-18. It runs low 70's. I can't say enough good things about the system.

I have an IMCO twin ram on my 26ZX. I went with IMCO on that because someone practically gave it to me. It is a nice system too. The boat runs well into the 90's and I would use a Hardin Twin Ram system on it ANY day.

Unless you are driving in some serious stuff, I would go with a Hardin single in your application unless you want to blow basically another grand to be symetrical.

HotPursuit

Dual ram!!! Install a load meter on the high pressure side of the steering ram and let me know what pressures your seeing at 70.. Blow out a single ram and you will go in circles trying to get home. Spend the $$$ and have piece of mine..

ZXXX Donzi

I have never heard of anyone blowing out a single ram from that in this type of application. Those rams can handle some serious pressure.

HotPursuit

Tell that to my friend who flip a 24 eliminator and killed his girlfriend.Single ram broke on a bravo running a 496 @ 78mph!! 1000$$ is well worth the extra safety besides all components will last alot longer.Let me know if you see a P class race boat with 525s running a single ram..He ask the question and take whatever advice is giving but I would give up a few weeks of gas money and purchase two..\
Just my 2