Which Ram Size For External Hydraulic Steering?
 

I am looking at buying a Mayfair hydraulic add on set for my 2005 Baja 25 Outlaw Bravo 1. They have two different options available.

Option 1
Part # 137-9414
(Ram Mounting Location is 9" from the side of the Gimbal Housing) (7” stroke ram)
Mayfair Single Bravo/Dual Ram Add-On Hydraulic Steering Kit - CP Performance

Option 2
Part # 137-9412
(Ram Mounting Location is 17-3/4" from the side of the Gimbal Housing) (9” stroke ram)
Mayfair Single Bravo/Dual Ram Add-On Hydraulic Steering Kit - CP Performance

I don’t see any reason why either one would work, which one is better? Any reason I should choose one over the other? Would love to hear from anyone who has added a Mayfair set on their boat.

Thanks!

SEE POST #16 HERE- https://www.offshoreonly.com/forums/...ing-kit-2.html

Convincor has the answer, just a comment

I like the looks of the dual rams but IMO you could get rid of all the add on stuff and install full single cylinder 9 or 17 cylinder for 100 more. No more PS pump and steering cylinder. Thinking bout installing one of these my self,
Mayfair Single Bravo/Single Ram Full Hydraulic Steering Kit - CP Performance

But may go dual just can not get past another grand for another cylinder

That said, I'm still working to get to 50MPH so I don't need it

Thank you!

Get the 9" stroke rams especially for a single engine boat. The more you are able turn the drive for docking, the better.

I've had add on and full hyd. I would never go with and add on system again.

Addressing the 2 lines I highlighted and colored. You still use a PS pump with that system and I believe that full hydraulic steering is one of the best upgrades you can do to a boat regardless of speed. The difference of cruising between 35-50 is effortless when you have hydraulic steering. Even the addition of Drew Marine Sidewinders is a good upgrade.

Something else to consider..
If you go with the full single system now, you could always add a 2nd ram in the future. Will require a different helm but all the plumbing will be there with the exception of hooking in the second ram.
BTW, I'll never have cable steering again..

Your correct it does require the pump, didn't notice that, thanks for the catch.

Agree, full hydraulic is the way to go, and with dumping 50K in a 20K boat already, it may be a mod in the future still after I get everything else sorted out.

Typical Full Hydraulic Steering diagrams. (Scroll down for different applications) http://www.everettperformance.com/PD...se_Drawing.pdf

Seems like everyone really hates the add on and prefers the full system, at the tune of 1000 extra for the full system what makes it so much better?

Thanks!!