Re: Steering system issue
Sounds like rudders need to be centered up if they favor one side underway but need similar force at rest. The 'jittery' feeling and sticking when reversing sound like air in the line. The torn bellows is just corrosion protection. Being torn makes it easier to spot a leak on that end of the cylinder.
So, I would drive it at idle in a straight line and then cast your eyes upon the rudder tillers to see if they're offset. Could easily be just one rudder that's out.
Where's all that red fluid coming from?
Re: Steering system issue
Quote:
Originally Posted by
racclarkson@gmail.com
Where's all that red fluid coming from?
Yep, where is the fluid coming from.
How much pressure in the system and fluid level?
Where is the boat?
Re: Steering system issue
I had assumed the fluid came from the bellow, I will try to pin point where it came from once it is cleaned up. It's extremely difficult to move further into the compartment let alone look around.
The pressure last I check read about 23 psi, with a range listed as 20-30 operating psi on the reservoir and manuals. The level was showing about 2/3 above low fluid mark (1/3 below max fill line).
The ship is currently docked in Virginia Beach.
Re: Steering system issue
Quote:
Originally Posted by
jtingram2691
The ship is currently docked in Virginia Beach.
It's a boat.
Re: Steering system issue
Quote:
Originally Posted by
krush
It's a boat.
Ship happens.
Re: Steering system issue
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Captain Ralph
Ship happens.
Yes, and the steering gear is much larger.
Re: Steering system issue
Late update, but I seem to have fixed the issue.
I drained the system of fluid, the last captain put in a very thick hydraulic fluid (or never changed it which is what I'm guessing), I saw a LOT of debris at the bottom of the bucket. Turns out that "red fluid" is what was put in the system, a very thick hydraulic fluid, which I believe contributed to the manual steering being a bit hard. Replaced the return filter, and refilled with the manufacturer's recommended fluid. After working the helm manually then with auto pilot, I looked at the reservoir again and the fluid had darkened again with debris. Flushed the system again, and replaced the filter one more time for good measure. Worked the helm by hand and by autopilot again, no sticking no hang-ups.
TLDR: Very old and VERY dirty fluid in the steering system. Flushed twice, and changed filters twice. Butter smooth steering now.
Re: Steering system issue
Some people use ATF fluid which is OK according to Hynautic but indeed results in stiffer steering. The best are either hynautic fluid or Aviation hydraulic fluid
Re: Steering system issue
The Teleflex power steering likes the 5606 aviation fluid which is the same as what Teleflex sells at a much lower cost.
This where we get it from. $27 per gallon
https://petroleumservicecompany.com/...gallon-bottle/