Add power steering to 3.0 Alpha1gen2 ?

[ojohn]

I have 1997 3.0 alpha1 gen2 in 19 foot Maxum (Bayliner). It seems to be completely stock. It is non-power steering. The steering is stiff at planing speed. annoying but manageable except in hard turns.
However, at low speeds it is VERY stiff. Docking is an adventure. Steering is pretty straight, requires equal effort in both directions at all speeds. Out of gear, with no prop thrust, it is free and easy in both directions.
Do you think adding power steering will solve the problem?
Is there another likely solution?
Thanks for your thoughts.

 

[SigSaurP229]

Re: Add power steering to 3.0 Alpha1gen2 ?

Boats by nature are harder to handle at low speed that is why it is important to have the hull on plane. That is where the least amount of resistance is and why the boat is easier to handle at planing speeds rather than low speeds. Adding power steering won't really help your issue its just the nature of the beast

 

[dan t.]

Re: Add power steering to 3.0 Alpha1gen2 ?

I would say you probably have steering issues,possibly the cable or the swivel pins in the drive, in any case p/s will give you effortless steering at any speed

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Add power steering to 3.0 Alpha1gen2 ?

It should steer easily at low speed. Think you need a new cable or complete system. Don't worry, they aren't that expensive.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Add power steering to 3.0 Alpha1gen2 ?

The steering is stiff at planing speed. annoying but manageable except in hard turns.
However, at low speeds it is VERY stiff.

Ayuh,... I'd think you have a Corrosion issue, or possibly the cable is shot...
Both things that adding P/Steering won't fix...

My 1st Guess is the cable is binding in the aluminum tube, at the transom mount...

 

[ojohn]

Re: Add power steering to 3.0 Alpha1gen2 ?

Thanks for all the replies. Seems the consensus opinion is some kind of "binding" going on (corrosion or wear or whatever). Do you still think this is the case, taking into consideration the fact that steering quite free when not under load? Thanks again.

 

[Howard Sterndrive]

Re: Add power steering to 3.0 Alpha1gen2 ?

steering quite free when not under load?

I have never watched you dock a boat, but you say docking is an adventure - that would lead most to believe it is stiff when not under load.
Most of us dock at or near idle speed.
If the steering is not free under that condition, something's wrong with it.

I have a 18.5' with a V6 Gen II Alpha and manual steering and it is almost effortless,
except if turning while getting on plane.
Docking is 1 finger smooth on mine.

Adjusting the trim tab properly was the key for me on plane.
A new propeller made a difference.
4 blade AL compared to 3 blade AL that had some rough blades.

 

[NYBo]

Re: Add power steering to 3.0 Alpha1gen2 ?

My guess is you've got a serious wear issue that is allowing the outdrive to shift under load just enough to muck up the steering.

 

[wire2]

Re: Add power steering to 3.0 Alpha1gen2 ?

...... Out of gear, with no prop thrust, it is free and easy in both directions.
.....

That part doesn't make sense. Prop thrust at idle shouldn't affect steering effort unless there's something mechanically wrong, possibly with the lower gimbal bearing.

Try disconnecting the steering cable at the transom assembly, then steer the outdrive by hand. Smooth and quiet?
Can you detect any play when pushing the lower outdrive sideways, to the left or right?

 

[JBF 1962]

Re: Add power steering to 3.0 Alpha1gen2 ?

yeah, my last boat was a 1978 20' Fiberform with a merc outdrive and no power steering and it was super easy to steer, despite being a heavy ol tank

 

[ojohn]

Re: Add power steering to 3.0 Alpha1gen2 ?

Well, I guess there is nothing to do but start taking it apart. I appreciate the input from all. I probably wouldn't have thought to check the sounds from outdrive steered by hand after I disconnect at the transom plate.

I don't know why operating even at idle is different than when out of gear, but it is.

Thanks also for the heads-up not to dock at planing speed, H.Sterndrive.
I have been running heavier boats with merc drives for the last 20 years or so, but they all have had power steering. I was just surprised by this issue with the little boat and 4-banger.
It is low hour, which can only mean not used much for a 1997 and I am guessing that Bond-o is right....too much sitting is bad. If you are still tracking this thread, Bond-o, do you have a direct check for cable binding or worn cable (for the moderately mechanical)? Should there be any tension on the wheel at all with cable disconnected?

 

[Bondo]

Re: Add power steering to 3.0 Alpha1gen2 ?

Should there be any tension on the wheel at all with cable disconnected?

Nope,.... None for the Drive either...