I see some boats with the steering cylinders mounted towards the outside of the drives (twin set-up) and some with cylinders mounted between the drives. When I look at the set-up, I can usually find a reason why the cylinders couldn't be mounted to the outside of the drives (usually some sort if interference). My question is this: What is the down side of mounting the steering cylinders between the drives. Is it as stong as mounting to the outside? Any handling deficiencies? Or does it really matter much at all? Is there any advantage to mounting them between the drives?

As you stated, between is just a tighter installation. No mechanical advantages to be found.

Mine are between the drives ... Imco stern advantage . laying out the transom dimensions is very critical . Imco showed directions for both inside and outside installs.With the trim tab actuators outside the drives (no room for steering).

Bob

The only thing that I might call a "benefit"
of mounting them on the inside, is that the
hydraulic lines are in a more central lacation.
(plumbing)

jt