Rack steering: NFB vs standard?

[CWKboat]

I have read a fair amount on this topic using the search function, but have a unique situation on my hands in the choice between the two:

I have a 21 ft Larson Bowrider (2002) with a 1987 Black Max XR-2 150 HP V6 with standard rack steering with a tilt helm.
The steering is a single cable system, and the boat tops out at about 42 MPH.

I have replaced the SSC13417 cable as the old one was very stiff. I ran into some difficulty finding a tilt NFB helm (90 deg won't work as the dash is recessed), so I decided to just order a new standard tilt helm to go with the new cable. It should arrive tomorrow.

But, today I lucked into a great deal on ebay on a tilt NFB helm and new tilt mechanism (the tilt NFB helms go for $130 or more on the net if you can even find someone who has one). I jumped on it, thinking at the very least that I could resell it down the road and make a little money if nothing else as they're not real easy to find.

Teleflex Tilt Steering Helm Lot | eBay

So, in essense, I now can either install the standard helm or go with the NFB. I have read that some don't care for the NFB and loss of "feel," as well as the clutch play in the wheel?

Any thoughts as to "which one would you install - standard or NFB?"

 

[metriccrescentwrench]

Re: Rack steering: NFB vs standard?

If you didn't have a lot of torque-steer issues before I wouldn't mess with the NFB. On my boat it's helpful because it tends to pull hard in one direction when going slower (up to 25 or so), but is very well behaved at higher speeds. And yes, you do loose a bit of "feel" with the clutch system, in some cases it's a worthwhile tradeoff but if you don't really need it I'd stick with the standard system.

 

[CWKboat]

Re: Rack steering: NFB vs standard?

Metric,

Thanks, that's kind of how I was leaning. I could always try the NFB later on, but I really didn't have a lot of torque issues especially at higher speeds. It's nice to be able to feel that sweet spot when trimming I would think, as well.

Thanks for the "feedback!"

 

[DRIFTER_016]

Re: Rack steering: NFB vs standard?

Yes, you do lose some feel but is sure is nice being able to leave the helm to tend rods while downrigging.
Before I put the NFB helm in my wheel would walk all the way to the right due to motor vibrations while trolling.
I didn't have any pulling issues when on plane.

 

[Texasmark]

Re: Rack steering: NFB vs standard?

I installed the NFB this time and like it. I guess it boils down to personal choice. I think it can help when you have torque issues with different trim positions. Funny, I don't remember if I had that problem with this boat or not. However I have had it in the past.

Mark

 

[CWKboat]

Re: Rack steering: NFB vs standard?

Well, I installed the standard tilt helm last night and the steering with the new helm/cable is a night and day difference than the old stiff cable. Of course, I may now also notice more torque, so I can always switch to the NFB if I choose.

Thanks to all for weighing in!