Power steering problem 1998 VP 5.7 Litre GS

[JPSCHWK]

Hi,

I have a 1998 VP 5.7 litre gas engine and am having power steering issues. I replaced the steering cylinder August last year due to a leaking seal. The pump was replaced as well by a marine mechanic, but once I started up the cylinder turned the helm hard to starboard and would not turn back. 　Prior to this I bled the system by turning the wheel lock to lock numerous times. One of the mechanics suggested I try and force it to turn but to make sure the fluid level is maintained. I ended up creating a leak in the high pressure line and fluid coming out of the new steering cylinder. I put another new steering cylinder and everything seemed fine. Two hours into a cruise this weekend the steering got stiff and then locked up. I limped into a dock on my kicker. No apparent fluid leak; added a small amount of ATF to the pump. Once again the helm was forced hard to starboard but could be easily turned when the engine was off. At the suggestion of a mechanic, I disconnected the power steering belt and manually steered my way home. Any ideas of what is causing this and how to fix it?

 

[spannerman]

Check the servo cylinder, just on the other side of the main housing where the steering cable goes in there is a sleeve which comes out carrying the end of the steering cable to the steering arm. There should be two flats on this sleeve which must be vertical, this can be adjusted by loosening the steering cable nut and rotating the sleeve, then hold it with a spanner while tightening the nut. This may help if its not in the right position.