Hydraulic Steering Issues

Spidermw81 · Post by **Spidermw81** » Tue Jun 08, 2010 3:34 pm

The hydraulic steering reservior was empty. I refilled it, pressurized it, turned the wheel a bunch, fluid level dropped and pressure dropped but the wheel is still has no resistance. I opened the vents on the reservoir and turned the wheel a ton, still no resistance. I have an auto pilot but have no idea how to turn it on yet (installed by the guys who owned the boat before me). I need any suggestions on how to bleed the system. I am thinking doing it from the bridge will be the best option but not sure. Any suggestions would be great. The only thing I had done to the boat this winter with regard to the steering was having the rudder packing and journal bearings replaced. Thanks

franklyprice · Post by **franklyprice** » Tue Jun 08, 2010 4:29 pm

I could think about it and forget some things or you can use the search function here under"bleading hydraulic steering" and you should find the info you need.

mikehedb · Post by **mikehedb** » Tue Jun 08, 2010 5:26 pm

It was my understanding that you didn't have to bleed the pressurized system. that would be the benefit to keeping my old pressurized hydraulic steering.

franklyprice · Post by **franklyprice** » Tue Jun 08, 2010 6:26 pm

Unfortunately you do have to bleed the pressure system. I' not sure exactly why the pressure is there but one of the reasons may be to keep out moisture. It will work without pressure on it but not a good idea.

richcatch22 · Post by **richcatch22** » Wed Jun 09, 2010 8:18 am

Try these instructions, worked for me. http://www.seatechmarineproducts.com/do ... ctions.pdf I have the PDF in case the link do not work, just tell me where to email mail it.

mikehedb · Post by **mikehedb** » Wed Jun 09, 2010 5:39 pm

Thanks for the advice...it is good to know. I bought my boat about one year ago and it was a basket case. One engine locked up and the other was questionable(replaced a cam and lifters). Pretty much gutted he inside and I have been working my way through the boat updating and repairig the various systems. I did pump up the air pressure on the hynautics system and felt it was more responsive afterwards. It has been a huge project and I have learned a lot in the process...a lot more than I thought I would after 30 years of recreational boating. I absolutley love this boat and it is coming along very nicely. I appreciate all of the help/advice so far.

Donmystic1 · Post by **Donmystic1** » Thu Jun 10, 2010 3:27 am

Rose Marine is a Hynautic repair facility in Glochester, MA I had them rebuild my steering cylinder and when I had a problem with the helm pump were able to send me the correct o-ring repair set along with very helpful instructions on repairs. After bleeding the system I had had no issues whatsoever . http://www.rosesmarine.com/

IRGuy · Post by **IRGuy** » Thu Jun 10, 2010 5:01 am

Mike... How about dropping me an email? I am also rebuilding my B33 FBC, and it might be good if we can share info.

kwinters · Post by **kwinters** » Thu Jun 10, 2010 12:11 pm

Mike: How is the Sweet Melisa comming along? We may have to figure our raw water/oil seperaters for our intakes before too long. I finally am about done after replacing all new fresh water system and vacuflush fresh water head and holding tank.

kwinters · Post by **kwinters** » Thu Jun 10, 2010 12:15 pm

I have rebuilt my helm cylinder/pump as shaft seal leaked. I replaced all the o-rimgs as well and reinstalled without ever bleeding. Seems like there is a relief valve in that which may be stuck open and won't let the pressure build. Hynautics has a great service manual that I found n/c online if you have not found it.

Spidermw81 · Post by **Spidermw81** » Thu Jun 10, 2010 2:52 pm

Rich, I followed that procedure and it worked like a charm!! Thanks for the help everyone, as usual this is the go to place for info!!!

mikehedb · Post by **mikehedb** » Thu Jun 10, 2010 6:49 pm

Kurt: Sweet Melissa is really coming along nicely, and we have been enjoying the boat. We even used it all winter with the cool weather, but I'm still working on a lot of little things that I'm sure will keep popping up until I've replaced everything. I had all my new canvas for the flybridge and cockpit cover installed about a month ago. It looks nice. I''l have to post some pictures. P.S. I haven't forgotten that you want a copy of the wiring diagram for the boat, but I have misplaced my copy somewhere between my office,truck,boat, home. As soon as it pops up I'll get a copy to you. By the way, are you happy with the re-fit on Crews Inn?

richcatch22 · Post by **richcatch22** » Fri Jun 11, 2010 7:53 am

Great news! Glad it worked out and we could help.