Steering The Volvo Penta sterndrive may feature a power assisted steering system. This consists of an engine mounted pump, hoses, and steering cylinder. These work in conjunction with the helm and steering cable to move the tiller arm, thus moving the drive unit. The steering system for your Volvo Penta sterndrive is operated by a steering cable connected to the helm. Restricting movement of the steering cable will limit or stop the steering system’s hydraulic assist. NOTE! Do not interfere with or restrict steering cable movement through the last 90° of bend at the engine. Do not use cable retainers, clamps or tie straps. Using one or all of these could restrict the cable movement near the engine. Do not tie wiring harnesses or other control cables to the steering cable. Make sure deck combing and bulkheads allow for steering cable movement. If the power steering system becomes inoperative, an increase in steering effort will be felt. Should this condition occur, inspect for possible cause and correct condition if possible. If the power steering system cannot be corrected on board, proceed at a reduced speed. The boat will be steerable, but with increased effort. See your Volvo Penta dealer as soon as possible to correct your power steering system.
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At slow speeds (no wake), your boat may tend to wander. This is normal and may be overcome by anticipating bow direction and correcting with steering wheel. A slightly higher throttle and trim setting may also lessen wander tendency. Changing weight distribution, aft to forward, can also affect slow speed steering.
Twin unit steering Twin engine boats may have only one engine with a fully operational power steering system. That power steering system is on the starboard engine; therefore, when operating on a single engine use the starboard engine. Note! Using the port engine that does not have the functional power steering system will cause an increased effort in steering control, due to absence of power assist.
A
Some twin engine boats may have both engine power steering systems coupled together with a priority valve. This allows the use of either engine to provide power assist steering.
Steering bearing lubrication Lubricate the steering ram (A) with a grease gun. Use water resistant grease.
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