Look to replace hynautic steering helm on a 1981 46’ Viking. The existing helm has a tank. Would like to replace helm with a simpler system. Looking for options for replacement
The components of the Hynautic system are all required for it to operate. Removing that tank disables the whole system. The Hynautic system eliminated the push-pull cables used for Morse, Teleflex and Panish controls. Cable systems may seem simpler but issues in the cables arise quickly as they become stiffer than the Hynautic system you have now. Labor to replace the tubes with cables would be more than replacing the tubes with some wires. Here the wires are much cheaper by foot (many) than cable. Radii required in the cables further complicates install considerations thru the boat. The next whole system is the electric/electronic systems. I would encourage the Glendinning systems for this. https://www.glendinningprods.com/
I am looking to replace whole steering system . One that has tank in helm. My existing engine and transmission controls are cable which are fine.
Oh steering.. Everybody complains about engine controls. Sorry I went the wrong way. The Hynautic steering system is probably the simplest system known. A standard thru many boats and very hard to improve on. However, there are electric/electronic systems. I do not have any hands on on this topic. I recall a YF brother in Alaska that may have went to this electric/electronic rudder control upgrade. I hope he will join us. While we are waiting on others to join us, What steering/rudder issues are you having?
Once a week have to add air to it. Other people tell me to replace it with a helm with integral tank. The ones like sea star . Those seem to be for smaller boats?
I went with a Sea Star electric powered HPU. It replaces engine driven pumps. Otherwise the components are the same (helm, tubing, tiller ram, etc. I used this one: https://www.seatechmarineproducts.c...ine-hydraulic-dc-power-steering-unit-24v.html
IMO; Do not go to the smaller boat SeaStar pump. If you are not loosing fluid, you have the classic issue of a leaking air valve. A new stem valve kit should fix you rite up. Tool and valve insert are available at auto part stores. Replace it just like when we were kids working on our bikes. If your loosing fluid, probably rite at the steering wheel shaft. These pumps are serviceable. I do recommend keeping the most reliable and simple system there is for rudder control. It is installed in a gozillion boats and despite Dumbetics attempts, these systems are not going aweigh.
I've had two boats that both leaked air pressure. Both were repaired simply by replacing the fill cap with Schrader Valve. Before starting a huge project, I would take a look at a couple simple fixes. They come with a new O-ring. Slightly more expensive than the auto store route but really easy. I bought them on E-bay.
Under hynautic steering is the best system for mid size boats. Nothing simpler anyway no you can’t switch to the small boat helm with no reservoir… fix what you have. As Ralph said the air valve is the most common source of air leaks. The Hynautic on my hatteras lasted almost 50 years before I had the two pumps and ram rebuilt… need I say more? I used these guys to rebuild them, 10 day turn around incl shipping
My helm unit from 1995 developed a small fluid leak and of course reduced pressure in the tank. Sent it in for complete rebuild and it was back in about 5 days. Also found & replaced what my guess was an original filter in the system. https://boaterscatalog.com/nbcat/product/hydraulic-steering-service-and-repair/
