Hyd steering advice
 

I am looking to upgrade my stock bravo 1 steering. I have read several things about add on kits and full hydraulic. Is there any disadvantage to the add on kits? Is there a preferred brand? Will both versions eliminate the slop in the system.

imco makes a affordable system.yes it should get the slop out,disadvantages maybe cost.good luck and thier well worth it.

Go full for sure. Zeiger is good also. Actually I haven't heard anything bad about any of the major manufacturers.

I would opt for a FULL single ram system over a twin ram add-on assuming the boat is <30' and cost is a factor.

On a single engine application the turn radius is reduce. I would opt for full hyd also

You are still relying on the cable and manual helm with the add-on kit. Unless you just want to tighten it up a bit def. go full hyd. It's worth it.

I will be putting the system on a 24 foot essex valor. I am installing a whipple on the 496 ho and should be in the high 70s when finished. I already have slop in the steering and I've heard about safety concerns with th stock set up at those speeds. The way I understand it, either add on or full system will address the safety concern but he full hydraulic sounds like a better system. Let me know if I am off track.
Thanks for the advice.

As stated go with a full system, big difference (I have had both).

I picked up a used Imco add on. Primarily for safety reasons (+80 gps in a 23 Nova). I noticed no reduction in turning radius, and less slop in the steering.

Those who have full swear by it, but the add on works ok for me.

Check out the Mayfair kits, best bang for the buck. I have the external cylinder but still have the cable helm. I will be changing to full hydraulic this spring, the slop in the cable is unnerving at anything over 80.

Hey Kidnova how are you.

I agree that if you can afford it go woth a full system which will eliminate any slop you have. As stated, an add on should tighten things up however you need to determin where your slop is coming from. It's not going to repair bad gimble bearings or pins, stretched cables etc. if funds are limited, I would first repair anything needed inthe gimble itself, then go for the twin rams and last but not least the helm. At 70 plus you are going to need it all. Stay safe