Have a 94 Formula 27PC with a single 502. Replaced the ram, PS pump twice and it still is not working right. Maybe it's 425hp using the standard mercruiser PS system just doesn't work. I'm thinking of removing the engine at the end of the season, refresh everything (sure could use a good dealer to setup the engine), add previously bought EMI headers and look for something new with steering. Would you recommend Lathem or other manufacture as an add on for a small cruiser?

On a side note if I could replace my whole setup with a 525 XR might go that way, but don't really want to put over 20K in a new setup.

you say not working right ?? how ?? maybe cable is bad, can cause weird issues, at the speed that will run ext steering not needed

The steering has always been hard in comparison to my 23 foot runabout. The runabout can be turned with one finger either slow or fast. The cruiser has never been easy; it turns easiest using both hands but can be done with one firm hand. I’ve replaced everything but the wheel which includes the gear box, cable, ram, and pump. I’ve driven many boats and none steer as hard as this one.

sounds like the P/S pressure is down, pumps mostly the same but the pressure regulator under the fitting for the high pressure line regulates it...might have the wrong one in there ? consist of a valve and a spring

I guess it's possiable but after replacing it with a new one "genuine Mercruiser" I'm having a little trouble.

Either way, what would someone recommend as a full hydraulic setup?

still don't think full hyd needed with that boat, when you say does not work right, what exactly do you mean ?

It's not "easy" to turn the wheel, it takes some effort. Engine not running, you can turn it with one hand but best not to just spin it with your fingers, you can but not easy.

Engine running and not in gear, easier but not much.

Put it in gear and even at idle it's best to use both hands to make sharpe quick turns out of the slip.

Running on plane does fine but not doing quick turns but must keep a firm hand on it.

It's been this way since I picked it up used years ago. There use to be so much play in the wheel that I replaced everything except the wheel. It doesn't make since to me either but I would really just want it to work correctly, if not replace the whole thing.

the full hyd systems I've driven don't turn super easy, for obvious reasons, harder than std P/S systems to me..thats what makes no sense with yours ? any sharp bends in the cable ?? something is not right...single engine 27pc cruiser right ?

No sharpe bends, and it is a single 27PC

Have you replaced the Brazil or Saginaw manifold (there the cable and p/s hoses connect to in the engine compartment on the stbd side)? If the manifold is not set at the correct angle, it will not work correctly and hold pressure.

What type of power steering fluid are you running?

How old is you cable? How much side to side slop?

Give us a call and we can help you out!

Eric