Steering

[Steeldieman]

My steering feels a bit notchie and not as responsive as I’d like. I know that others have had this issue and that there’s a cap to add fluid at the top of the wheel. That cap also appears to be a sight glass and my fluid seems full. Anyone with experience with this issue your thoughts are appreciated.

 

[Red Raven]

Unfortunately it is not as simple as just adding fluid at the helm. You have to do it without adding air into you system. You may already have air in the system already and if so you’ll need to bleed your system. The RT factory and Garmin use a power system that is the preferred approach. I have not done it but as I understand it there are ways to do it yourself as well. There are several YouTube videos on how. Maybe someone who has done it will chime in with the details.

Curt

 

[NorthernFocus]

Also make sure you're not fighting the auto pilot.

 

[ALICE J]

I had to replace my autopilot hydraulic unit which allowed air into the system. I manually bleed the system over many many hours by turning the wheel lock to lock with a little tug at each end 😳 sorry about the pun, with the cap off. Each time a few bubbles appeared, fewer and fewer, but not satisfied until absolutely no bubbles appeared. Not difficult, but time-consuming. I have had no issues with the steering since. The bubbles are compressible when in a closed system and will affect the performance of the system. Check all the fittings for signs of fluid, then turn the wheel. I used a clear vinyl tube screwed into the bleed screw to prevent a mess on the cabin sole, about three feet long, also got to see those "tiny little bubbles, bangles, ever blowing bubbles" Patience is the key.

 

[captstu]

Did you grease the zero on the rudder shaft. That fixed by boat’s rough steering.


Stuart Bell
Ranger 25: Shearwater
(561) 352-1796