Steering issue

[bauerbach46]

I’m having a tough time getting the boat to turn (R25sc). Read somewhere that this can be caused by air in the hydraulic lines. Just have to spin and spin the wheel until finally the boat starts to turn. Is air in the line a likely cause? If so, is it difficult to bleed the air out? Anyone know how that’s done?

 

[Brian B]

Sounds like air in the system or loss of fluid. Check the fluid level at the helm. Remove the black cap on the helm, fluid should be at the base of the threads. If you have lost significant amount of fluid find the leak. There are many videos online showing how to bleed the system.

 

[jlhowland]

Also check that the autopilot is not engaged.

 

[BB marine]

I have a couple questions before guessing what the issue may be.
(1) Do you have Autopilot?
(2) Did the issue just start or has it always been an issue?
(3) Have you looked for oil leaks ?
(4) Have you noticed the fluid level drop in the helm reservoir?
(5) How many turns to port before the wheel locks up? How Many turns to starboard before the wheel locks up. It should be 4 to 5 turns lock to Lock.


(1) yes I have auto pilot (2) yes it just started - It may be an internal check valve leak in the auto pilot pump. Close shut off valves located in the valve block at the pump. Take the boat out and see if steering has recovered to normal operation.
(2) just started -look for leaks. Always had the issue probably needs to have the system bleed
(3) Did you find leaks? If yes repair leaks fill helm reservoir and bleed system
(4) this would be an indicator that you have a leak
(5) If more than 5 or no consistent lock would indicate air in the system, leaking check valve in the auto pilot pump or steering cylinder piston internally leaking by.

Troubleshooting this issue should start with the simple and work outward. Going through bleeding the system as a start could be a waste of time if that is not the cause of the issue.