Hydraulic Boat Steering
Boat Hut has access to a large range of hydraulic boat steering systems, cylinders, kits and spare parts including seal kits. The brands available include – Seastar (previously Teleflex), Baystar, Multiflex, Ultraflex, Optimus, Caplilano and Hydrive.
Please refer to the Seastar and Baystar selection guide (please click link)- Seastar Baystar Hynautic Hydraulic Steering Selection Guide 2018
We can supply hydraulic boat steering cylinders, helms, bezels, seals, oil and outboard hoses. We have these available separately and in various steering kits.
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What is
hydraulic boat steering, and how does it work?
Hydraulic boat steering is a method of steering that uses oil via flexible hoses to transmit force from the steering wheel to the outboard motor. Hydraulic boat steering systems are relatively exempt of frictional loads from engine torque and similar as most of the moving parts are running on ball bearings and in oil. This makes them more reliable, efficient, and they require less maintenance than mechanical cable type steering.
Turning the wheel pumps fluid (Hydraulic oil) from the helm through the hoses and into the cylinder. The cylinder moves the ram which in turn moves the engine through its steering arc. At the heart of all hydraulic steering systems (eg Seastar, Baystar etc) lies the helm pump. SeaStar Solutions helm pumps are axial piston pumps specifically designed for manual hydraulic steering and all models feature an integral lock valve which prevents the steering load from feeding back to the wheel. The lock valve will not allow the rudder or drive unit to move until you open it by moving the steering wheel. A relief valve is also incorporated to provide over-pressure protection for the system components. SeaStar Solutions has a hydraulic cylinder to suit most steering applications with all cylinders being supplied with dual end seals, anodised aluminium or brass barrels and chrome plated or polished stainless steel shafts for minimal friction and maximum seal life.
Other manufacturers have their own designs that offer similar performance – please review each product to understand what they offer.
Hydraulic Boat Steering Kits or Boat Hydraulic Steering Kits are used on predominately larger HP outboard – the smallest recommended size is 40HP.