I am getting ready to install a SeaStar hydraulic steering system in my father's Family Skier. I was wondering if anyone has experience installing this type of steering system before? Any comments/suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, IndyDyne
I have an 89 Family Skier....I have owned it since new. I tried several different options to tame the extreme torque steer that was present when trimmed up even slightly. About a dozen years ago I installed a Sea Star System and would recommend it to anyone, steering is smooth and effortless, torque steer is non existent. Install was reletively simple, needed to enlarge steering column mounting hole, also needed to unbolt and lift the engine (Mercury V6) to install rack. I have not had any problems in all these years, have not even needed to bleed out system, it has been rock solid. Good Luck on your install and enjoy the outcome. Dave G
The most common steering system used today is the SeaStar by Teleflex. Most engines use the HC5345 cylinder although some earlier OMC motors (1990 and older) and some Yamahas need a different cylinder. You can use a normal straight helm if that is what you are used to, or a more expensive tilt helm. You will most likely need 18 ft hoses for a 20 foot dyne. Message me if you need more info or a good source to the steering.
The directions are reasonably good. Read through them while looking at the parts. If you have any questions, ask them here before or during the install. I went with the straight helm and used the angled mounting plate. You can mount the plate either into or out of the dash. I went with set in, and like it.
There are some good threads on here from when I did mine that will probably help. I made a device to hold the bottle of fluid and a block to hold the motor still while getting the air out of the lines. I think there are photos of both in a thread. Markbano
