Hydralic steering lines.....what to use?

[Capt. Tobb]

I have a Hynautic steering system and the 1\4" line (return?) going from the resevoir to the helm is broken. All three lines look terrible under the cockpit, it is as if they are sheding skin. Anyway, I would like to replace this line but wouuld prefer to use something other than copper. Does anyone know what kind of pressure? an alternatave to copper? Thanks

 

[Boatsb]

I replaced all mine a year or two ago. Copper is the best for the main runs. It is almost 1/2 the cost and will last longer than the tubing.

The tubing they recommend is a very low stretch high pressure tube that will need replacement every 5-10 years. You use that at the ends because copper does not fare well if it flexes.

I believe it is a parker product with reusable brass connectors that are available in different types to connect to the copper flares by design.

 

[saltshaker]

Both Parker and Aeroquip make good reinforced rubber hose. Not sure about the pressure for the system but they both make hydraulic lines with pretty high ratings.

 

[Genesis]

Be aware that for good feel on the steering you want no "stretch" in the lines. Standard hydraulic hose is not suitable for this reason - the steering will have a very "mushy" feel. The "speshul" hose sold for steering purpose works fine but has a significantly shorter life than copper and is more expensive.

Nothing works better than the copper Hatteras originally used - it is both cheaper and lasts longer.

Replace it with what's there now.

 

[mike]

FWIW, as saltshaker said, both parker and areoquip make very good high-pressure hose (3000 psi rating is available). If you keep the flexible portion short you'll minimize the "mushy feel". The hatts have flex hose at both helms and at the stern hydraulic cylinder that actuates the rudder. They have worked fine on my 53MY for over 35 years with no "mushy feel"; it’s a non-issue in my view.

 

[Boatsb]

The point is to use the correct hose that has minimal expansion. The parker I used was recommended by Hynautic because it has low streatch. The areoquip should have the same characteristics. When you have a 2 foot length at the end of each copper line it will matter if it stretches or not.