I took my Donzi out for the first time Friday, and found out that the hydraulic steering does not work as it should. I can turn, but it requires alot of force on the wheel, and the steering is very slow to respond. At one point, the steering felt as if it was locked. I have heard of Donzi having problems with their steering on some of their boats equipped with WPM which is what I have.

Do I just need to replace a pump or a valve, or does the entire system need replacement.

Corey

How old is the filter element? It could be clogged.

I assume it is original. I don't know where to even look for that. Can you tell me what it looks like and where to look for it by chance? Sorry for the dumb questions, this steering is like hebrew to me.

Corey

It's close to the height of a 12oz can but a little skinnier. It's usually somewhere near or on the transom. If you follow the high pressure line from you PS pump you should find it.

I can't say for sure that's what the problem is but it's cheap and easy to replace. My steering turns easily with one finger.

I'll check there, I have absolutely no power steering. It steers underway, just as if it does with the pump side motor not running

Corey

Check the belt tension and also check that the pulley isn't spinning on the shaft. I'm assuming that the fluid level is ok.

Does your stbd motor have a pump also. If so switch the lines over there.

Is it a full hydraulic system ? Sounds like you may have air in it.
If so you will have to bleed it at the cylinders.