UFlex - HYCO vs HYTECH vs PROTECH?

[emilime75]

Want to upgrade my mechanical steering to hydraulic. Price difference between the Hyco and Protech are similar enough, about a $60-70 dollar difference. Engine is 115 ProXS CT. Boat is a 22' pontoon. Aside from the 150 and 300 HP limits between the 2 systems, would one provide any benefit over the other? Would the Protech be easier to steer than the Hyco?

Also, I see Hytech systems come up in Google searches, but not on UFlex's website. Is this an older/discontinued system? It's priced at about $150-200 cheaper and seems available from many vendors.

 

[dingbat]

Also, I see Hytech systems come up in Google searches, but not on UFlex's website. Is this an older/discontinued system?

HYCO

PACKAGED HYDRAULIC STEERING SYSTEMS Packaged steering systems up to 150hp

uflexusa.ultraflexgroup.com

 

[emilime75]

HYCO

PACKAGED HYDRAULIC STEERING SYSTEMS Packaged steering systems up to 150hp

uflexusa.ultraflexgroup.com

Are you saying that the Hyco and Hytech are the same? Why do some product photos say Hyco and some say Hytech on the box? There's also a Hytech 1T that comes with a tilt helm.

Boat Steering Systems & Components | Defender

Shop Steering Systems & Components for boats of all types at Defender. Get fast delivery and free shipping on eligible orders over $99.

www.defender.com

 

[emilime75]

Just got off of the phone with UFlex, found some interesting tidbits for anyone else looking at their mid line hydraulic systems.

The website is outdated and needs to be updated as of this post date.

The Hyco 1.0 and Hytech 1.0 are, indeed, the same. The difference is that the Hyco requires you also purchase pre-made hoses for which you specify what length you need. The Hytech comes with 40' of plastic hose and fittings for it, you just cut the hose to the length you need. The plastic hose is a little smaller ID than the premade, and are more prone to leaks. They both use the UC-94 helm.

However, there is a new version of both, the Hyco 1.1 and Hytech 1.1, which now come with the UC-95 helm. This is a redesigned part and with it now carries a max HP rating of 175. Also, maybe most importantly, the UC-95 helm now has replaceable end caps, meaning should the seals fail, they can be field serviced as opposed to the whole helm having to be shipped back to UFlex for repair.

Didn't get a chance to talk Protech, but they mentioned that based on my boat and engine the Hyco/Hytech would be ideal.