Hydraulic Steering

[JEG]

Following collision with terra firma I replaced the leaking cylinder. The lower wheel now operates correctly but the upper is only properly effective in one direction; the opposite lock takes many turns & spins the lower wheel. There is a separate non return valve fitted which I suspect to be the culprit. Vetus have not yet been able assist. Has anyone experience of this kind of difficulty which they would be willing to share?

Thank You,

John G

 

[chrisc]

stay away from hard objects

 

[Guest]

I am assuming you mean the rudder was forced and the cylinder went beyond its pressure design and the seals failed.

If so then start replacing all the upstream parts until you are sure that a non-return valve held against the over pressure.

I certainly would if it was my only means of controlling my boat.

 

[hightech]

Each helm pump should have a built-in non return valve. They are there to prevent one pump backdriving the other and moving the helm like it should do. It is possible to have external valve blocks in the system, one for each helm.

From your description it sounds like a stuck valve in one or no valve.

The manufacturers data sheet for the helmpumps should tell you what you have, you can then work out what your problem is.

 

[JEG]

SolarNeil & Hightech,

Many thanks for your helpful responses.

John G