hydraulic steering problem
 

I have a formula 242 ls with a single bravo single ram full hydraulic steering system on it.
The helm is a capilano 1250.
With my last engine 6.2 mpi and a 17p prop it was very easy on the steering.
But with my new 377 hp blue scorpion and 23p prop my steering is almost blocked when running on plane.
What could the cause of this be or are any tips and tricks to get the steering a little easier?
The number of steering turns are adjustable but i have to put it on the most turns otherwise it is even worse.

Thank you!

Does the drive turn back and forth easily when the boat is in neutral at idle?

Is that helm unit made for I/O's? Seems like you see them used with OB's most of the time.

isn't that the non P/S run system ? the helm is the pump ? if so not really designed for this style boat...

I can turn the wheel with 1 finger in neutral,the helm is directly connected to the what i think is a mayfair steering ram,so no P/S
I haven't driven any other boats with full hydraulic steering so i can't really compare how it should feel.
With the 17p prop it runs fine except for the huge amount of steering turns lock to lock.
But with the 23p it is very hard but only on plane.
If i replace the capilano helm, what type of helm should i look for to get smooth steering with minimal turns?
Thanks!

Pretty sure most kits come with a Char-Lynn helm. They are come in different sizes depending if you are using 1 or 2 rams. I had a single ram system but used the helm for the 2 ram system and it worked fine.

I don't know what size prop you are using would have anything to do with the steering. Do you have an inline filter in your system?

No filter,i think i am going to switch to a inside full hydraulic kit from mayfair, then i will have the powersteering.

Nothing to do with the helm but does your drive a a torque tab on it,and if so have you tried adjusting it?

I don't really know what a torque tab is but i have tried loosening the connection of the ram to the drive but that does not change anything.

Round anode that mounts behind and above prop, some have a small skeg molded into them.

Sounds to me like the new power is too much for the helm unit. I highly recommend you talk to Paul at Everett Performance. I bought an internal kit from them that included everything I needed for less money than the Mayfair and the Helm and steering wheel adapter were much nicer as well.

that system not designed for what you have, more for inboards or some lower HP outboards, you need a system run by a engine run P/S pump, Char-lynn helm, you may be able to use your rams, not sure, hardin, mayfair and others make the correct parts...

Mine has a flat anode, never seen a bravo with the skeg anode on it.
I got the boat out of storage today en did some work on it.
The helm is a capilano 1275v and a single marine machine steering ram. I read that this helm is for twin ram or a single balanced ram.
Steering left is much easier than right could this have anything to do with the balancing part?

Google anode trim tab, not truly the answer but they lessen the torque steer you're seeing now with a larger pitch prop.

Well think i solved the problem today,
While i was working on the steering ram and drive i noticed some play on the outdrive.
With a closer look i saw that the lower steering pinion was gone!
I replaced it with a used one from another transom i still had.
Took the boat out today with a enertia 21 and the steering feel was back the way it used to be with the 17p.