Difference between rotary and rack steering

[Valv]

What is the difference between rotary and rack steering systems. I don't mean construction, but affidability and toughness.<br />I heard racks are better anti-feedback than rotary, and also will stand more hp. I have a Yamaha 150 and wonder which I should choose.<br /><br />Thanks

 

[MIKE F]

Re: Difference between rotary and rack steering

I see you're not getting much of a response. I don't believe there's any difference in toughness and they're usually priced the same. I think the only difference is the extra space required for the rack. I just repowered a couple of months ago and replaced a 115HP engine with a 150HP engine, unfortunately I've only used the boat twice since then, but noticed that my 4 year old rotary steering has picked up a lot of slack and is getting difficult to turn. I just bought a Teleflex Bay Star hydraulic system on E Bay. They just recently re-rated this system for 150HP, it had only been rated for 140HP. I think 150HP is right around the point where you should consider hyd steering. I probably could have picked up a new no feed back cable set up for under $200, but I got what I think was a good price on the hyd. so I went with that instead.

 

[crab bait]

Re: Difference between rotary and rack steering

i wanted to respond earlier but got side tracked...<br /><br />i have had & installed both but in my small boats.. so can't really say ... but the rack & pinion is truley rack an pinion.. it's a gear ridin/turnin' on another gear/rack.. <br /><br />the rotary is a cable bein' wrapped an unwrapped around a small drum of sorts..<br /><br />i would have to say that the rack is a percision instrument not effected by shock or hp ... opposed to a cable wrapped around a drum...but really can't say an have no proof.. just my judgement..<br /><br />the rack is REAL steering...