External Steering
 

I see the new 35' Formula Sport Fast Tech's going out the door with 496 HO's ...and a tie bar..no external steering...it's a 9,500lb boat..maybe on GPS 74mph...asking for trouble without external steering or would the above combo work?

My guess is the average guy is fine with this set-up or Formula would not be producing them in the quantities they are currently at.

What is to be lost without external steering? What parameters make it mandatory if they exist?

My sources tell me a good Lathem tie bar will keep the drives tight even with that weight and size of a boat. Some say no.

The ext steering can be had but the wait is several months..

Nice price too of $169k.

Re: External Steering
 

Just my opinion(and you know there like a$$holes :drink: ).

I would definitely want it on if is was my boat. If its stopping you from buying the boat I would say buy it and see how it runs and/or add it after the fact.

Re: External Steering
 

Personally I think any boat capable of over 70MPH ought to have external steering. Something breaks or comes loose with mechanical at speed and and boat will make a hard turn on you. I know, mine did it but was't going that fast. Could have been disasterous. If something goes wrong with hydraulic at least it won't turn and throw you out. Of course can be added to any boat.

Re: External Steering
 

Mercruiser(now called Mercury Marine), has always recommended, in print, in their marine accessories catalogs, that a tie-bar be used on any twin sterndrive application above 60 m.p.h. They refer customers to Latham Marine & Marine Machine for these tie-bars, as Mercruiser has never sold them themselves, for liability reasons. Common sense would also dictate here. Yes, external hydraulic steering above 70 would be great, even for recreational use. Ed

Re: External Steering
 

Cool...so as I am not one to go over 70mph...don't race or run hard...usually cruise at 45-65mph...with the Lathem tie bar I am good to go.

Re: External Steering
 

For weight & power of that boat, I would want external steering. It will save a lot of wear & tear on your gimbal rings.

Re: External Steering
 

What's a unit coast? easy to install?

Re: External Steering
 

I would tend to agree. :drink:

Re: External Steering
 

that boat needs external steering those gimble rings will be trash in no time

Re: External Steering
 

Hydro,
I have exactly what you need.
Dean