Mercruiser Steering problem

[mjrhoads]

Having a steering problem with my Alpha I/Gen II outdrive.<br /><br />Classic problem while at WOT boat will steer to the left <hard>, if I let go of the steering wheel (I have a RH prop - which sorta makes sense).<br /><br />What doesn't make sense though is the fact that this Mercruiser 4.3L/Alpha I set-up has power steering, and no adjuster tab on the outdrive (which I've noticed most late model Mercruisers do not - it's just a flat anode plate).<br /><br />So how do you compensate for the Right Hand turning prop trying to push the outdrive to the left????

 

[Mufasa]

Re: Mercruiser Steering problem

Monte,<br /><br />You should not be getting that feedback through the power steering. The reason you do not see the trim tabs anymore is that almost everything comes standard with power steering now. The 3.0L is the only model that manual steering is even offered on. The trim tabs you refered to are still available if you need to offset the prop torque.

 

[mjrhoads]

Re: Mercruiser Steering problem

Thanks Master Tech!<br /><br />However, your point is that I should not have to compensate with a trim tab, if I have power steering, correct?<br /><br />So does that mean I likely have a power steering problem (low fluid, bad pump, etc.)?

 

[bret walters]

Re: Mercruiser Steering problem

your model and year mercruiser has the new style power steering valve that does not have a spool valve adjustment like the early "saginaw" unit. check and make sure that the steering cable is free to move completely at the rear of the boat where the cable attaches to the power steering unit, there cannot be any tie straps or cables wrapped to the cable. the cable also must be free of rust and corrosioon in the steering tube and properly greased. if it is corroded and has dried grease, you must remove the cable completely, clean cable and tube and apply new grease - mercury special 101 is the best but it is not cheap. if this does not correct problem then the problem is with the powersteering unit and the only fix is a new unit, as your style is not servicable.

 

[mjrhoads]

Re: Mercruiser Steering problem

merctech,<br /><br />Are their any other tests I can do (static or otherwise) to determine if the power steering pump needs replacing?<br /><br />FYI - I also forgot to mention that at low to mid speeds the steering wheel is basically "centered" while moving straight thru the water. However, at mid to high speeds, I have to turn the wheel ~45 degrees to keep the boat on a straight away course.

 

[bret walters]

Re: Mercruiser Steering problem

has the boat ever steered correctly?

 

[denniz]

Re: Mercruiser Steering problem

Is that trimmed out?

 

[mjrhoads]

Re: Mercruiser Steering problem

merctech,<br /><br />I recently purchased this boat, and have only had it out once (and experienced what I described above). However, the boat has only 53 original hours, is in immaculate condition (inside & out), and has never had any damage from hitting obstructions, etc.<br /><br />Also, the power steering pump fluid is clean and at the proper level, and the steering seems to statically "feel" the same (does not bind in one direction when moving the steering wheel fully in either direction).<br /><br />Any other clues or suggestions?

 

[mjrhoads]

Re: Mercruiser Steering problem

Mystery solved! <br /><br />Replaced my Alpha4 prop with a Hustler 3 blade, and it not only fixed my performance issues, but the boat now steers fine (at low, mid, and high speeds).<br /><br />I guess there was something wrong with this prop, all though it looked virtually brand new (as does the rest of the rig), no dings, no worn off paint.......weird!?