Pontoon Boat & Deck Boat Forum

Is hydraulic steering, non-powered, better than manual steering? What about the Teleflex's BayStar systems vs the SeaStar?

I might be looking at spending more money to repair my existing hydraulic steering than it would be to replace the entire system with a cable based solution. So, I'm trying to find out if the hydraulic is better and if so how?

If you are used to hydraulic, you wont be happy with cable...it's almost the equivalent of replacing your cars power steering with manual. Cable steering requires alot more effort to turn and is nowhere near as smooth as hydraulic.

The baystar system was designed for boats with less than 150 hp and is more affordable than the seastar system. It was intended to be an affordable replacement to cable steering for smaller boats/motors. I've installed several baystars on small boats and they work well.

I will add a second "you will not be happy with cable steering after having hydraulic" I drove a friends boat this past summer pulling tubes and he had cable steering. Man I couldn't wait to get back on my boat! I know for me the cost to repair or replace would be a no brainer.

Thanks for the input!

Fortunately for me, Teleflex stepped up and offered to replace my helm free of charge!! It is refreshing to find a company that stands behind there product!!

Update: I received a new helm and plenty of fluid to flush and fill the system today! Teleflex sent it Red OverNight delivery!! Very happy!

Gotta love that kind of story!