Anyone have any advice on full helm to drive cylinders hydraulic system that seems to bleed pressure requiring continued turning of wheel to keep boat going straight? Twin engine boat with two cylinders and a tie bar. Steering cylinders on stern say Marine Machine. Not sure of helm unit, but has four lines going to it and has three turns side to side. System is full of fluid and has no leaks. I suspect check valves in helm unit leaking internally. Does anyone service Marina Machine helm units or do I need a new unit? I believe system to be a 1999. Any help would be much appreciated. Thanksl

These guys were featured on Ship Shape TV. Dont know that they advertise that they work on those but you might give them a call. I know they rebuild helm units but unsure of brands.

http://www.boatsteeringrebuilders.co...--program.html

Thanks for the info Blue. I'll call them Monday.

Hydraulics shop. It's the same unit used for a lift truck.

I just noticed you are in MD. The only one local that can rebuild/ test your helm pump is Baltimore Hydraulics they are on 25th street Baltimore right in the hood. I don't work far from there. If I can help you out let me know.

Check the cylinders first. I had the same issue.
Post #90 in my restoration thread.
http://www.offshoreonly.com/forums/r...rogress-5.html

I know of a small hydraulic shop in Middle River that can most likely help. PM me and I'll get contact info for you.

Hey Rookie. That was what I was looking for. Thank you. Cylinders are much easier to deal with than helm access. Where did you get the parts? Did you rebuild yourself and was there any special tools required? Black Baja, I will try cylinders first and than tackle the helm if need be. Thanks Sonic,would appreciate the name and number of the hydraulic shop in Middle River since I am right up the road. Thanks to all for responses.

Local hydraulic shop had them. Might need to heat up end cap they might be loctited on. Don't put in vise.

Hey guys. Finally got the rebuilt cylinders back after extended delay by local hydraulic shop. Shafts were pitted and had to be sent out of state for chrome plating. Anyway, all installed with new hoses on outside of transom and filter checked and cleaned. System is pressurized by stock pump on 496 HO. Is there a way to spin pump to bleed system with out starting engine? Does the system self bleed by turning wheel side to side or does hose fittings need to be cracked open to expend air? Any assistance or advice is much appreciated. Thanks

If the hole in the end of the pump shaft has an allen socket provision, disconnect the belt and use a drill and allen to spin the pump. Make sure you are going the correct direction when you do so.