Cutwater 28 Steering Garmin Issue

[asm777]

If my checking account doesn't scream too loudly, I am going to add power steering to my boat, as well as a new AP pump plumbed per Garmin's instructions and see how that works. Presently anything above 15 mph and the steering is too hard for my wife to be able to handle the boat. After doing a sea trial in a C-302 with power steering I knew it was the answer to her issue. I think $3K for a pump and some lines is better $$$ spent than $150K for a new boat. I understand that a factory member with a R-23 has added the power steering and really likes it, but it was a bit of a hassle to install.

Posted in a previous thread about the steering difficulty turning to starboard: viewtopic.php?f=6&t=14707

Another option to possibly consider might be increasing the steering cylinder to the next size up which reduces steering wheel difficulty (but also increases the number of turns to go from lock-to-lock). Below link shows how different cylinder sizes paired with different helm sizes provide a range of Light, Normal, Medium and Heavy steering wheel feel and number of turns lock-to-lock for inboard steering systems:
https://uflexusa.ultraflexgroup.com/en/ ... ystem.html

On our C30, after the steering cylinder was replaced with the next larger size, the steering wheel went from approximately 4 turns lock-to lock to approximately 6-7 turns lock-to-lock but steering is much lighter and easier and I can maneuver the boat one handed even at WOT compared to before when I struggled with both hands to turn the boat to starboard at cruise speed.

The outboard steering system page doesn't show the same chart but does confirm the same relationship between steering wheel feel and lock-to-lock turns saying:

The number of turns from full lock-to-lock has a relationship to ease of steering. Generally speaking, the more number of turns lock-to-lock the easier the boat will be to steer and vice versa.

https://uflexusa.ultraflexgroup.com/en/ ... ystem.html

Definitely agree though that spending a few $$ to address these issues is better than the cost of a whole new boat!

 

[Jetdude]

I just want to thank you all for taking the time to document your steering issues. I have a 2020 30cb with all the issues you have related. I must steer to starboard continually, especially when encountering windy conditions. I have contacted Andrew Custis at Fluid Motion and I am awaiting a response from FM or Garmin.
I will let you all know how this is resolved on my boat.

 

[ButtercupWa]

I recently acquired a C-28 and am experiencing the identical symptoms. I thought I'd start with checking the fluid level

I’m a first-time boat owner, so please excuse this basic question! The very disappointing Owners Manual provides no details on how to check level nor details on recommended fluid. Thus far I've watched a couple generic Youtubes, but would like some Cutwater-specific advice.

Really would appreciate some instructions, tips/tricks and recommendation on a fluid to purchase.
Thanks --- Love this Forum!

 

[SassyRed]

Today we test drove our C30CB after having the check valve kit installed. It is a different boat. Point the boat, take your hands off the wheel, and the boat just goes where it was pointed. Definitely worth the investment.

 

[ixlr8]

Today we test drove our C30CB after having the check valve kit installed. It is a different boat. Point the boat, take your hands off the wheel, and the boat just goes where it was pointed. Definitely worth the investment.

Where did you get the "check valve kit"?

 

[SassyRed]

https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/p/28647/pn/010-11203-00. I think this is the kit they were using. The check valve looks the same.

I had Bellingham Yachts do the installation. You may need som additional fittings and hydraulic hose depending on your installation. And after the installation air in the system needs to be bled. A good job to let the pros with the pressure bleeder do.

Good luck.

 

[JamesC28]

Are there videos or instructions on how to check the fluid levels and or change out this pump. I too have the same problem on our 2013 C28. And I also just use the auto pilot to keep the boat going straight.

Thank you!

 

[Chili Pepper]

Been there! Done that!! Had same problem. Call Garmin. They are in the process of fixing my GHP10 under warranty. Garmin has been really good to work with on several issues. Give them a call.

 

[Chili Pepper]

GHP10 had check valve problem. Garmin added a separate check valve unit to my GHP10. Works great. Have driven boat over 200 miles since the "upgrade".

 

[ButtercupWa]

Update on my posting:
I also had the check value installed as described by SassyRed. Very pleased, its like a different boat. Steering holds the line in chop that normally would require constant correction. My wife now feel comfortable with the boat too.

Really appreciate the help on this forum!

 

[daveme]

Hello,
I have a CW 30 that use to have the same problem. Fade to the left when manually steering. I replaced the pump last year, didn't do anything. Then I discovered this from a posting here: it is a defect. Who's fault is somewhat foggy, ie CW installation or Garmin, but the solution is easy: You need to have the Garmin Check Valve installed, Garmin PN 010-11203-00. At least that is the solution for the CW 30 with 1.2 L Garmin pump.

Bellingham Yacht Services will quickly make this mod, and it didn't cost me a penny; Garmin paid for it.

Dave Melin

 

[Chili Pepper]

My 29CB Tug had same problem. It has the Garmin GHP 1.2L pump. Problem turned out to be check valve failure in the pump. Garmin installed an "add on" check valve device (Garmin V2) under warranty. Problem seems to be solved. Call Garmin.

My Opinion: The check valves in the 1.2L pump is not sufficient for this size boat.

Have talked with other people with similar problem. The installation of Garmin's Smart Pump solved their problem. This is an expensive solution. Hopefully the "add on" check valve device will be sufficient.