Hydraulic Steering Systems: possible issues and solutions
For any problems and assistance of our products , please contact us: service@mavimare.com
Below are the most common faults and their likely cause and solution. Sometimes when returning the wheel from a hardover position, a slight resistance may be felt and clicking sound heard.
This should be not mistaken as a fault as is it a normal situation caused by the release of the lockspool.
| FAULT | CAUSE | SOLUTION |
|---|---|---|
| During filling the helm becomes completely jammed. | Blockage in the line between the helm(s) and the cylinder(s). | Make certain that hole has not collapsed during installation. Check fittings for incomplete holes, however are not common. |
| System is very difficult to fill. Air keeps burping out top of helm even after system appears full. | – Air in system. – Bleed fitting leaking. | – Review filling instruction. – Tighten bleed fitting. |
| Steering is stiff and hard to turn, even when the vessel is not moving. | – Adjusting hexagonal nut on tilt tube over-tightened. – Restriction in hose tubing or fittings. | – To test disconnect cylinder(s) from the tiller arm and turn the steering wheel. If it turns easily, correct above-mentioned problems. – Please note that excessively loose connections to tiller arm or tie bar can also cause mechanical binding. Note: a kinked hose will cause stiff steering and should be replaced. – Check the right oil way. |
| Steering is easy to turn at the dock, but becomes hard to turn when vessel is underway. | – Steering wheel is too small. – Incorrect setting of trim tab(s) engine. | – Fit larger wheel if possible, see installation instruction. – Adjust tab(s). |
