Steering is stiff at idle
 

Okay, what is the deal with my boat...steering cables have been changed out twice, no difference in the stiff steering at idle. Almost impossible to move. No problem once the boat is running on plane. Bravos on Scorpions, a few seasons old. No one seems to be able to fix it. Yes, the power steering tank is full. <gg>

Re: Steering is stiff at idle
 

Do these PS pumps have popoff valves, or just orifices? If they have popoffs, yours is stuck open.

Re: Steering is stiff at idle
 

I shall back away slowly, bowing to the floor several times..you da man!

I really don't know about the values, but will tell the mechanics to check them. Never heard this before, maybe that is it.

Many thanks!

Re: Steering is stiff at idle
 

Hmm, looked at a parts fish. PS pump is shown as a single component. I think it's a garden variety GM pump though, and has internal bypass. Otherwise, the brazil valve is stuck.

PS pump supplies line pressure and has a return line.
Brazil valve shuttles pressure to extend or retract the actuator (just like the pre 84 Vette steering valve). There should be a "center position" adjustment screw you can play with to see if the actuator is helping out properly. Turn it one way and the it extends, the other way and it retracts.. Motor got to be running of course.