38 open 2001 steering issue

[OurHighLife]

Hey gang,

First season with this boat:

1.  What make/type of steering system was installed?
2.  What type of fluid goes in the system?  SeaStar?
3.  Is there some type of pump or pressurized system?
4.  Where are the components located?

Steering is VERY sluggish to respond to the helm.  Turning to starboard the wheel feel "lumpy", like running over a bumpy road.

Any direction, suggestions or guidance appreciated.

Thanks,
Andy

[ReelMagic]

I own a 2003 38 Open and it has a Seastar steering system. You are correct it uses sea star fluid and goes in at the helm station steering wheel. There should be a chrome cap on the top of the dash just behind the wheel that fills the steering wheel. The rudders are moved via a hydraulic cylinder connected to the steering and rudders which is located under the stern fish well (the big well at the stern). If the fluid level is low you may feel what you described. suggest you make sure the system is full. If it requires fluid there is a process that should be followed.

[OurHighLife]

Reel Magic,

Thanks, any idea where I can find "a process that should be followed"?

---

Oh yeah, where is the reservoir for the fluid?

[ReelMagic]

I've attached the manual for the steering system, may not be the exact version for your system but the idea is the same. The process is easy. You attach a bottle of sea star fluid with a tool (purchased separately) that hooks to the vent cap I described. see diagrams in the attached manual. Believe at this point you rotate the steering wheel all the way left then right. repeat several times and you will see the fluid go into the steering wheel (look behind the steering station at the back side of the helm station for the reservoir). Should solve your problem

[OurHighLife]

Much obliged

[OurHighLife]

Ends up that the steering cylinder is leaking. I am going to replace as opposed to re-build. Much more $$ but will be easy enough to swap out.

[ReelMagic]

I assume you mean the steering cylinder by the rudders in the stern. I agree, I had to change the same part on my 1997 31 Open when I owned that boat.... I agree to replace vice rebuild. Was told rebuilds didn't last and it was hard for me to do without the needed specialty tools.. Good luck

[jmk]

If you mean the helm unit is leaking, and if it is Hy-Drive as mine from 1990 was, and not SeaStar, then it can be rebuilt using -214 and -218 orings that will cost you a couple of bucks.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk