Heavy Power Steering

[petem]

I've noticed that the power steering on my boat isn't as light as I think it should be. It also feels a little notchy and I've noticed a little bit of a weep of yellow fluid behind the steering wheel boss. Any ideas what it could be? Boat is a Targa 34, I'm afraid I don't know what sort of power steering it has.

 

[dj43]

I've noticed that the power steering on my boat isn't as light as I think it should be. It also feels a little notchy and I've noticed a little bit of a weep of yellow fluid behind the steering wheel boss. Any ideas what it could be? Boat is a Targa 34, I'm afraid I don't know what sort of power steering it has.

If the system has air in it or needs topping up ,could be the problem also check pressure on pump if gauge fitted

 

[stelican]

The yellow fluid could well spilled St Miguel or maybe lubrication grease for the cable.
Check power steering belt is tight as this could be slipping and also oil reservoir on top of engine has correct oil level

 

[omega2]

no fluid in reservoir top it up.

 

[petem]

The yellow fluid could well spilled St Miguel or maybe lubrication grease for the cable.
Check power steering belt is tight as this could be slipping and also oil reservoir on top of engine has correct oil level

Nah, too thick for St Miguel. Could be grease.

Have I got Teleflex?

I should know the answer to this but are you saying that there's a cable between the wheel and the power steering pump. Does the cable get stiff / notchy over time?

Pete

 

[rafiki_]

I've noticed that the power steering on my boat isn't as light as I think it should be. It also feels a little notchy and I've noticed a little bit of a weep of yellow fluid behind the steering wheel boss. Any ideas what it could be? Boat is a Targa 34, I'm afraid I don't know what sort of power steering it has.

Pete, the PAS on my old Sunline was never as light or had the "feel" that I prefer, however, there was nothing wrong, just how it was. Many variables in the system, and boatbuilders never take the time to optimize them. Does it work? Yes, then move on. One of the issues is we are so used to well sorted steering in our cars, and this can colour our judgement. Clearly if there is fluid missing, or air in the system, this won't help. Also check the sterndrive for stiffness and free play.

 

[BruceK]

In addition to above
Notchy? Is it a tilt steer mechanism, if so I may have the answer.
Tight? When last were the steering arm on the transom shield greased / has salt crystals got into it?

 

[Portofino]

If it’s hydraulic, there will be a bleed screw at the highest point .
With a little funnel you can remove the cap and top up .I do .
Some symptoms as you it’s gets gravely and stiff ish , only takes a slight drop in fluid .
As you peer in the hole you can see what look like plates that’s mesh .If air is introduced- cos they are not submerged,then the steering goes gravely .
Top it up and do few L +R turns to force any air out .

Of course check your steering ram for weeps n seeps and obvious major leaks , and with an outdrive the PAS pump for leaks .
On a sizeable shaft drive we have a separate hydraulic system that powers up steering ram , flaps and passerelle ram(s)
That’s run by a independent electric pump not a PAS pump on the engine .
Engines on my boat just turn the props only nothing else , no pas pumps no water heating ,
Heres a pic of the hub and you can see the bleed screw too .
My Sunseeker with KAD 300 was the same type of hub

View attachment 67728

 

[petem]

Thanks. It's certainly useable as it is but I'd quite like to understand it and also prevent it from getting any worse.

For the avoidance of doubt, am I current in surmising the following...

1) Behind the wheel there a gear that drives a cable. Is there a grease nipple? Does this part wear out?
2) There's a cable from the wheel to the pump.
3) The pump has a reservoir (I need to check the level).
4) The drives themselves may be stiff (I wouldn't be surprised if this is the case). There should be a grease nipple or something can should be lubricated to ensure that they turn freely?

 

[BruceK]

Pretty much yes unless you have hydraulic steering from the helm as opposed to hydraulic assisted cable. If you do have a tilt steer cable mechanism and it's notchy see http://www.ybw.com/forums/showthread.php?486379-Free-play-in-steering&highlight=tilt+steering+brucek

and part 21

https://www.marinepartseurope.com/en/volvo-penta-explodedview-7749309-44-10847.aspx