Steering replacement suggestions

[Heronboy]

Has anyone replaced or upgraded the steering system on their dual station Ranger? In a story too long to repeat here, we have struggled with the steering on our 31 CB. This past week I had the system power purged as a final attempt at dealing with it. While air and discolored fluid was removed, steering issues remain. The primary one being a need to constantly steer starboard in order to go straight. Three years of dealing with it and I am done. Time to rip it out and start over.

Anyone have recommendations for replacement? Or tips on doing the replacement? I’m open to either hydraulic or electric.

 

[Andrew Custis]

Hello,

The first thing that should be done is to have check valves installed for the autopilot pump. The pulling to one way was discovered with failing check valves inside the autopilot pump creating this issue. I would recommend reaching out to Garmin customer service who will be able to assist in getting this done. I am 99% positive this isn't a cause from the Hydraulic steering system itself.

 

[ixlr8]

The check valves in the pump are a common failure and lead to the exact problem you describe. As Andrew said, start by calling Garmin and explain your problem. All it might take is a check valve retrofit kit, or you might need a new pump. There is an easy test to do to check if it is the pump/valves are the problem. Garmin will likely ask you to run this test anyway. On the end of the pump there are 3 screws, screw them in gently until they stop. You might want to count the number of turns you turned in each screw. Then go for a ride, do NOT use the autopilot when the screws are screwed in. If steering is normal, not having to constantly turn to one direction to go straight.... then the problem is in the pump. Remember to back out the screws when the test is done. If you use the autopilot with the screws screwed in, there is a chance you can damage the pump and will need a new one.

 

[BB marine]

Jim and Andrew's advise spot on. Your pump assembly is probably bad with leaking check valves. Read this manual and you will understand the components and way's to troubleshoot.

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q ... __rPH_3X_f

Notice in the instructions it states parts needed ( Hydraulic T-connectors ) Fluid Motion doesn't always follow these instructions. Garmin representative told me that using the Manifold has the primary hydraulic hose manifold can cause check valve issues. I was advised to only have 3 hose connections and use Tee connectors to plumb the hydraulic hoses. This will help with prevent check valve failures. I will say there are other reason for failures but a proper installation is recommended.


This is my install using Tee fittings after talking to Garmin. Knock on wood !!! 5 years no failure. I do believe that the other issue is the pump assembly may be undersized for the larger Tugs and Cuts. ( My opinion based on fail rate with Tugnuts )
gallery2.php?g2_itemId=67962

 

[Heronboy]

A follow-up. Testing did reveal the Garmin autopilot motor has an issue, as once it was isolated the boat held a heading straight or turned. I’ll be looking at replacing the AP motor next week. However, leaks at the upper helm remain, as does my firm belief the steering assembly is undersized for the craft. Steering is easy at idle, but at speed requires two hand pulling the wheel so hard my 200# butt lifts off the seat.

I will be looking at other options and post what I decided on.

 

[Wee Venture]

However, leaks at the upper helm remain, as does my firm belief the steering assembly is undersized for the craft. Steering is easy at idle, but at speed requires two hand pulling the wheel so hard my 200# butt lifts off the seat.

Something sounds wrong here. We have the same model boat. Steering requires more torque at speed than at idle but has never been that physically challenging. My 5’-5” wife has no problem controlling the boat at speed. I have occasionally forgotten to put the autopilot in standby however, and then turning the wheel was a fight against the AP pump. This can be especially true if your shadow drive is not functioning or not set to be sensitive enough.

John

 

[serpa4]

I have a 2018 C30 with the same steering constantly to starboard issue. I called Garmin for trouble shooting. They sent me a new GHP 10 1.2L pump replacement. Its in a box awaiting an external check valve kit so when I replace the pump, it doesn't go out again.
I should have my parts next week and will then attempt to do it myself. I live in New Mexico and have no boat dealers around to assist.
I need to figure out how to bleed the system after installing the T and the check valves. Hopefully I won't have the issue in a year again.