Power steering jumpy at idle and slow speeds

[Donzi GT250]

I wonder if any one would have an idea why the power steering on my 1989 5.7 OMC cobra would be jumpy when turning the wheel when at idle or slow speeds.
Once the speed of the boat comes up the steering smooths out almost completely.
My theory is that the PS pump is having a hard time keeping up with the movement of the steering wheel at low engine rpms.
BTW my service manual gives a spec of 550 to 600 rpm in gear at idle.
But my engine is set to idle in neutral at about 600 rpm.
What is the correct idle rpm in neutral for my engine?
could the low neutral rpm's be causing my steering issue?

 

[DaNinja]

Re: Power steering jumpy at idle and slow speeds

Jumpy? Or is just doing a weave at idle speeds?
A wallowing weave is normal, but jumpy needs definition.

 

[rbh]

Re: Power steering jumpy at idle and slow speeds

If you turn the stearing wheel one way or the other and it kicks back, I would check the power steering fluid level first and if it is full I would say your idleing to slow.
Also, have you checked the belt for tightness, possible slippage due to wear.

 

[Donzi GT250]

Re: Power steering jumpy at idle and slow speeds

If you turn the stearing wheel one way or the other and it kicks back, I would check the power steering fluid level first and if it is full I would say your idleing to slow.
Also, have you checked the belt for tightness, possible slippage due to wear.

This is it, the steering wheel kicks back when turning it at idle RPM's.
The book calls for the idle to be set at 550 to 600 rpm's at idle in gear . But doesn't give a idling rpm in neutral.
What rpm should my engine be set for in neutral idle?
Should it be higher than the in gear idle?
Is it safe to run the neutral idle higher than the in gear idle as I am afraid that may cause hard shifts.

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: Power steering jumpy at idle and slow speeds

About 750-800rpm.Neutral. The jumpy #8 on the diagram.Lube that.The fluid in the resivoir???
Get a manual.(mines in storage)#8 It might need high pressure grease.J

 

[Howard Sterndrive]

Re: Power steering jumpy at idle and slow speeds

low fluid or slipping belt

 

[Joshua Nichols]

Re: Power steering jumpy at idle and slow speeds

low fluid or slipping belt

What he said

 

[Donzi GT250]

Re: Power steering jumpy at idle and slow speeds

Well I checked everything again and the fluid level in the ps pump is correct the belts are the correct tension and not slipping I greased the steering actuator and the idle rpm is 600 rpm in gear.
But i still have the steering issue.
Any other ideas.