Steering helm going out...replace or go hydraulic?
 

My steering helm will need replacing and a new cable in the near future. I have been trying to decide rather to just replace the helm and cable or upgrade to some type of a hydraulic system. I have read many threads on here that said going hydraulic external steering is only needed for going over 80. Right now I only run about 60 but I do plan on upping the motors in the 3-5 years if I don't upgrade boats first. What are your recommendatios on steering system for this type of setup. I would appreciate brand names etc if possible. I have twin 454's with Bravo one drives.

Hydraulic steering is great, I have used WPM with good success and it is easy to install just takes time and attention to detail. WPM was the most economical. Imco, latham are good brands. You've got it bad, your boat will not likely be worth more$$$$$ with upgrades such as this. I personally now wouldn't own a performance boat without it, but make sure you're going to own it long enough to make it worth your while. Give Hardin and Teague a call for a quote.

Lol yeh I don't expect to sell this boat for a profit....I will look into those systems... Are they external or internal?

Looks like $2500 for dual ram kits .... What is the best alternative? Is there a helm/mechanical aftermarket kit that is really good?

I know that people say if you are not over a certain speed than no need for full external hydraulic steering. It was the best improvement I have ever added to my boat!!! The boat is more stable at ALL speeds, the boat rides like it is on rails. Once you add full hydraulic you will wonder why you didn't do it sooner. I highly recommend getting it.

The hydraulic assist systems add a margin of safety but do not feel great at the helm. They work by using the steering cable to initiate the movement. When you start to turn the wheel you feel some resistance then it gets easier. If you do it, go the entire hydraulic system. I was not happy with the hydraulic assist and added the helm right away.

Thanks for the input.... Can full hydraulic be installed with motors in place or do they have to be pulled? How many estimated hours to install?

It will take about 8 hours or so for somebody that doesn't do it all the time, but I like to install all the thru-hull stuff one day, then leave it to let the sealer set up overnight.

It's really not too bad to install. I like the Mayfair stuff, its reasonably priced and pretty nice.

Based on CP's price, you are looking at about $3600 for dual bravo/dual ram full hydro. You can piece out the inside stuff, but really you don't save much. And the nice thing getting the entire kit is that you get every part you need to install.

I have Hydraulic steering, but its not "full" hydrualic. Is there a kit to make it complete, or do you have to start all over?

Thanks for the links.

whats the big difference in between the first one, and Mayfair deluxe kit?

I have a Bravo xr, with single ram.

thanks again.

Looks like the deluxe comes with the remote reservoir.

Which personally I didn't use, I don't see the need unless you are running two pumps. Once the system is bleed, the fluid volume will not change and as long as you have a decent cooler you should have no issue with heat.

If you already have hydraulic rams to the drives with cables on the inside (cable over hydraulic), you can replace the cable helm with a hydraulic helm, add hoses, filter, etc. and have a full hydraulic system.

I did this about 4 years ago using what was already in place and just adding the remaining components. Was just under $1k for the new helm, fittings, hoses, filter, etc. It's a do-it-yourself job but somewhat time consuming by the time you move stuff out of the way to get to the inside of the transom, assemble,route, and clamp the hoses.

It was well worth it! I would recommend it on any performance boat.

I never did see a response on motors.... Do they have to be pulled to install these systems or can you easily get to everything with them in

Motors were left in. We removed the exhaust / tailpipes and some other pieces to get to the transom easier. I suppose if you're real skinny you may not have to remove anything. :)

you can do it with the motors in the boat. there are 4 lines that run to the column. pressure return left and right turn. you need to get to the power steering pump and oil cooler.

excellent
thanks for the replies fellas.