We've done it on a diesel endurance boat in the UK - lose the separate reservoirs and have one reservoir for both pumps, the rest is just plumbing!

I've run into the same issue with just one pump and it's why mine is out of commission at the moment. I wanted two (2) from day one but can't seem to get the guy's who work on my boat to get it done. I know it's going to be a winter priority this year. It's no fun either having to get towed back in or try and idle for miles back to the dock...

Am I the only one that can still steer my scarab even if the power steering engine is not running? Yes it steers harder but in a pinch it's manageable. Is that extra plumbing and complexity worth it for the rare amount of times you will be down one engine?

I've done it, It's only difficult at speed (lose the belt) but idling its really not that bad, at least not on my boat

fixx
 

i say elminate the whole thind pump belts and all and go with a dc powered power steering pump.had a friend that ran one on his boat and worked great! here is one but i know they make them for a i/o also..

http://www.teleflexmarine.com/produc...ering-new/spa/

The Mercury Verado outboards have them as standard - easy to fit as well! (edit not the Seastar version but the 12vdc power steering)