What kind of brand hydraulic steering is better?

[maitrieu]

Dear
So, i have been using VETUS hydraulic steering kit for outboard 300HP .
But, seem not good. Because:
Firstly : The nylon hose is slim, too thin. That mean it's easy to fold
Secondly : The helm pump 20HTP, and cylinder OBC275 seem not smooth, not smooth than Ultraflex .

So, Question,
1. anybody use Vetus hydraulic steering before, any comment or feedback?
2. Can you prefer me another brand name? I know some brand : Vetus, Seastar, ultraflex, multiflex,
any comment or idea

thanks

 

[PCUK]

My last three boats have used Vetus and I have found them all to be superb. I used copper tube rather than nylon as it is cheaper and stronger.

 

[scottie]

The hydraulic hose should solve the jerking but how much commission is the forum getting for solving the problems you appear to being paid for?
You would still require flexible pipes at the engine end?

 

[superheat6k]

My last but one boat had Vetus single station, the last and current Seastar. On the Vetus the only issue I had was a porous casting on the helm pump, which I managed to resolve.

On the last I had to replace a quad sealing ring in the lower helm pump, otherwise nil issues on two boats with Seastar.

I cannot split a hair between either brand, both seem excellent NB all three Mobos with single shaft with rudder single helm Vetus, then two shafts twin helms, then ditto.

 

[maitrieu]

So, Can the Viscosity Index be affect to hydraulic system? now, i use the Ultraflex, with Viscosity Index <100 for my system, while vetus hydraulic have Viscosity Index < 353

 

[ffiill]

The hydraulic hose should solve the jerking but how much commission is the forum getting for solving the problems you appear to being paid for?
You would still require flexible pipes at the engine end?

Hydraulic steering is self contained with the steering head attached to the wheel generating the pressure through a series of radially mounted cylinders driven by a cam.
An autopilot drives it using an electric hydraulic pump.
Mine is also fitted with non return valves so no feedback but you can walk away and leave the boat to look after itself.
My vetus is great and without fault