Hydraulic Steering Problem 1981 Universal

[BrightTrawler]

Greetings all!

The problem:
Turning Starboard on our helm, the steering is very slow to engage and the helm spins and spins without coming to a hard stop. Port direction works fine. As you might imagine this is very unnerving! Fortunately we have twins and can steer effectively at slow speed.

Here's what we have:
A RAM that requires ATF rather than hydraulic fluid per the manual.

Here's what we've done:
Bled the lines twice from the top helm. Tested the RAM independently and the vendor confirmed the RAM was working properly.

Could the RAM still be defective?
What's the next best step?

We don't want to take her off the lake and into Puget Sound until this issue is resolved.

Thanks for your help!

 

[rochepoint]

What are the make and model of your helm pumps?
WELCOME ABOARD!

 

[BrightTrawler]

Thanks for the welcome!

It is a Teleflex Calypso model.

 

[Comodave]

Welcome aboard.

 

[rochepoint]

Thanks for the welcome!

It is a Teleflex Calypso model.

Sorry not familiar with that Calypso model, our boat has a Teleflex Capilano. We had a similar problem and after talking to them in Vancouver BC @ (604) 270-6899 they suggested I take out our check valves in the helm and clean them (just a round ball and seat), did the upper helm first and our problem disappeared....

 

[Keysdisease]

Teleflex Capilano, made in BC just up the road from you.

I have always found them very helpful

SeaStar Solutions

Thanks for the welcome!

It is a Teleflex Calypso model.

 

[Airstream345]

Agree with Rochepoint, sounds like a starboard check valve issue (or a leak).

 

[BrightTrawler]

thanks all for your great advice and contact info! I'll post the results in this thread after we clean the valves and/or call Teleflex.

 

[rochepoint]

Here is a diagram of the check valves........

 

[BrightTrawler]

Thank you rochepoint!