Switch from cable to hydraulic steering

MasterBaiter · #1 09-25-2009, 12:56 PM

I've decided that this winters project for my 23' inboard will be to switch from the worn out cable steering to a hydraulic system. My question is which one? I know everyone has an opinion so if you would justify your preference I would appreciate it.

Thanks in advance.

gss036 · #2 09-25-2009, 01:45 PM

The only ones I have seen recently is the Sea-Star. They bought Hynautics (which my boat came with)out years ago.

Old'sCool · #3 09-25-2009, 02:24 PM

Sea Star with the highest ratio (fastest) pump

stumpie2 · #4 09-25-2009, 08:33 PM

is it a true inboard? if it is i would save the money and the hassle. just replace the cables because your not contending with prop torque so you really dont need "power" steering. just my opinion

Blue_Heron · #5 09-25-2009, 11:12 PM

I gotta agree with nuthinfancy. Cable versus hydraulic makes a huge difference on an outboard powered boat, but an inboard or I/O with power steering shouldn't benefit from hydraulic enough to justify the extra cost.

My $0.02
Dave

Fr. Frank · #6 09-25-2009, 11:27 PM

hydraulic on an inboard is like a stereo with great high frequency response on a Harley. You can do it, but why?

Jon2002 · #7 09-26-2009, 09:45 AM

I converted my 23 Sceptre to hydraulic because the cable steering was worn and very sloppy. I like the feel of the SeaStar system much better than cable steering and it allowed me to install an autopilot which is great on long runs. The hardest part of the install was getting the old cable out! BTW, my boat is a Volvo I/O with power assist steering.

stumpie2 · #8 09-26-2009, 12:04 PM

jon2002, the hyd.steering benefited you because of the i/o and the prop torque. in the case of the true inboard the rudder isnt effected by prop torque there for why go hyd. if i were in his situation i would go with the original setup. btw raymarine makes an autopilot system for cable steering systems.

MasterBaiter · #9 09-29-2009, 09:26 AM

Nice Job!
This is exactly the dialog I was hoping for. Yes, it is a "True" inboard and prop torque is not the issue. I was hoping to eliminate any play in the steering by going hyd.

Jon2002 · #10 09-30-2009, 10:06 PM

Change to hydraulic and you lose the slop! I never liked the feel of cable steering on any of the boats I have owned with cable. Even when new there is some freeplay. You have to decide if it is worth the money. Good luck!