Last updated on April 2nd, 2023 at 10:17 pm

Are you tired of struggling with stiff steering and lackluster performance on the water? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be diving into foolproof Hynautic steering bleeding instructions that will leave you with smoother turns and better overall performance. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time boat owner, these simple steps will have you feeling like a pro in no time.

How To Bleed Hynautic Steering System

Step 1. Fill & Pressurize The System

To bleed Hynautic steering, use a light viscosity hydraulic oil that meets the aircraft hydraulic fluid spec Mil-H-5606. Locate and loosen the two screws on the relief valve, then remove the hex plug on top of the reservoir and fill it with oil. Pressurize the system to 40-45psi, then bleed the air out of the (P) port and (S) starboard lines at the highest helm. Disconnect the cylinder and bleed both ends by backing off the socket head cap screw bleeders or cracking open the fitting connections. Verify that the reservoir is at least 3/4 full and the gauge reads between 40-45psi.

Step 2. Purge The Air From The System

To remove air-infiltrated oil from the hydraulic lines and replace it with solid oil, use a sequential process of operating the helm(s) and autopilot. The number of wheel turns specified in Table 1 should be followed, with an increase of 2 turns for every extra foot of tubing length beyond 20 feet. Begin at the highest helm and turn slowly 60 times in one direction, then repeat at each successively lower helm and autopilot.

Note: These instructions explain how to purge air from a hydraulic autopilot. To do this, you must set a course on the autopilot to the same direction you are steering the helm(s), then run it for 1 to 2 minutes. Next, you must crack the bleeders at the cylinder and allow the air to bleed out. After this, check the reservoir pressure and oil level, refill if needed, and turn the wheel 60 times in the opposite direction. Repeat this process at each helm and autopilot. Finally, close the two relief valve screws with pinned hex nuts by turning clockwise and snug with a wrench.

Caution: To prevent loss of steering, it is important to close the relief valve screws properly. Begin by turning the helm in one direction until a hardover is felt, then open the bleeder or crack the fitting at the cylinder to release air. Repeat the process by turning the helm in the opposite direction until another hardover is felt, and bleed until solid oil appears. Verify a complete purge by rotating the helm to achieve the corresponding number of turns hardover to hardover in Table 1 of the official Hynautic bleeding procedure manual. To test the relief valve and system integrity, turn past hardover at each helm position, forcing oil over the relief valve. Finally, secure the cylinder to the mounting structure and check the fluid level and pressure in the reservoir, leaving it 1/2 to 2/3 full and at 20-30psi.

Step 3. Check The System

It is recommended to perform a final purge and system check after 24 hours to detect leaks and remove any remaining small bubbles. Observe the system for oil leaks and the reservoir gauge for pressure loss.

Note: To account for a common 5psi pressure fluctuation on hydraulic autopilot systems that are exposed to a temperature change of 20°F or more, the first step is to open the relief valve screws. Starting at the upper helm, the helm should be turned 40 turns in one direction, and this should be repeated at each successively lower helm. Then, the helm(s) should be turned in the opposite direction in the same manner. Next, close the relief valve screws and snug them with a wrench. It is important to verify that the appropriate number of turns hardover to hardover has been achieved and to recheck the oil level (which should be between 1/2 and 2/3 full) and reservoir pressure (which should be between 20-30psi).

Note: These instructions are about disconnecting a line from the system. Before starting, the air pressure within the reservoir needs to be exhausted, and the filler plug should be removed. The relief valve screws need to be opened to relieve all pressure in the lines. After finishing the work, the lines should be reconnected and the system should be repurged of air.

Final Words

In conclusion, maintaining a hydraulic steering system is crucial to ensure the safety and performance of your vessel. By following the manufacturer’s instructions and performing regular checks, you can prevent potential malfunctions and keep your system in top condition.

Remember to always be vigilant for any signs of leaks or pressure loss, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you encounter any issues.

With proper care and attention, your hydraulic steering system can provide years of smooth and reliable operation, allowing you to enjoy your boating experience to the fullest.

Check out our Guide to Hynautic Steering Troubleshooting.

Last updated on April 2nd, 2023 at 10:09 pm

Ahoy there, fellow boaters! As experienced seafarers, we all know that sometimes, even the most well-maintained vessels can run into some trouble. One of the most crucial components of any boat is the steering system, and when that system malfunctions, it can quickly become a hairy situation out on the open water. That’s why we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of Hynautic steering troubleshooting, so you can be prepared to handle any steering issues that come your way.

Whether you’re a seasoned boater or just starting out, understanding how to diagnose and fix Hynautic steering problems can be the difference between a smooth sailing experience and a nightmare on the high seas. A great place to start is the Hynautic steering manual. In this article, we’ll cover everything from identifying common symptoms of steering problems to the steps you can take to get your Hynautic steering back on track. So batten down the hatches and get ready to become a pro at troubleshooting your Hynautic steering system!

Steps to Troubleshoot Your Hydraulic Steering System

Is your boat’s hydraulic steering system causing you trouble? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with these proven steps to troubleshoot the problem and get back on the water with ease.

Problem 1: Hard Steering

It’s important to know that hydraulic steering doesn’t necessarily mean “one finger” steering, but it should definitely be easier than manual steering. Unless you have a power-assist steering pump or a separate electric unit, you’ve got hydraulic steering on your hands. If you’re experiencing difficulty turning the wheel, it could be a sign of trouble. Before you start to panic, though, it’s important to figure out whether this is a new problem or if it’s something that’s been going on for a while.

If you’ve just purchased your boat, it’s worth checking with the previous owner to see if the steering has always been hard. On the other hand, if you’ve had your boat for a while and the steering has gradually become harder over time, there are some steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue. Let’s dive in!

How To Troubleshoot

Follow these steps in order to identify and solve any issues you may be experiencing:

1. Check the hoses of your steering system for any kinks that might be causing problems.
2. Make sure your fluid reservoir is topped off and ready to go.
3. Disconnect the steering cylinder from your engine, outdrive, or rudder and try to turn them by hand. If they move easily, turn the wheel and see if it’s still tough to steer.
4. If everything is moving smoothly, lube all the fittings on your engine, outdrive, or rudder as preventative maintenance and re-attach the cylinder.
5. Still having trouble turning the wheel? Try turning the rudder or outboards by hand. If they’re stiff, you’ll need to fix the issue by lubing the motor couplings or adjusting the rudder. Sometimes the stuffing box nut can be too tight, causing the rudder to refuse to budge.

Problem 2: Slow or Partial Turning

If you’re spinning the wheel but your engine, outdrive, or rudder is turning slowly, only moving partway, or just heading in one direction, then you’ve got a steering system that’s not doing its job properly.

How to Troubleshoot

It’s likely that your cylinder is in need of some servicing and re-sealing in order to get your steering system back on track.

Problem 3: Mushy Steering

If you’re finding that your steering is sluggish or has a “mushy” feel to it, then there might be some underlying issues that need to be addressed.

How to Troubleshoot

It’s possible that air has infiltrated your system, causing the slow or “mushy” steering. Check your owner’s manual for instructions on how to properly bleed the system. It’s important to note that air wouldn’t have entered the sealed system unless it was intentionally opened or there is a leak present.

Problem 4: You Have A Leak

Looks like there’s a leak happening around the helm shaft located behind the steering wheel.

How to Troubleshoot

If you’re experiencing a leak around the helm, it’s likely that it needs to be serviced and re-sealed. However, it’s important to note that this is not a DIY job unless you have ample experience with hydraulic repairs and a deep understanding of the inner workings of your particular brand of helm. We strongly recommend that you contact your local repair shop for assistance.

While small leaks may not immediately prevent your system from functioning, we advise against operating your vessel in this condition any longer than necessary to get back to port. Be sure to keep the reservoir topped up with fluid until you’re able to address the issue.

Problem 5: Bumpy Operation

If you’re experiencing a bumpy or jumpy feel when turning your helm, then your system likely has some underlying problems.

How to Troubleshoot

This could be a sign of air in your system, so your first step should be to try purging it. However, if this doesn’t resolve the issue, then it’s possible that there’s debris clogging one of the check valves in your helm. It’s important to note that attempting to fix this yourself is not recommended and should be left to a professional.

Problem 6:  Drifting Off Course

If your boat is drifting off course without any changes to the steering wheel or rudder angle, then you may have an issue with your steering system.

How to Troubleshoot

It’s possible that you need to service either the check valve in the helm, the cylinder, or both.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as a boater, your steering system is the heart of your boat, and it is vital to ensure that it is operating correctly. Troubleshooting hydraulic steering problems may seem daunting, but with patience and persistence, you can diagnose and fix the issue.

Remember, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with any of the steps, always consult a professional. The last thing you want is to be out on the water and experience a steering failure.

By following the steps we’ve outlined and regularly maintaining your steering system, you’ll be able to steer your vessel with confidence and enjoy your time on the water to the fullest.

Be sure to check out our Foolproof Hynautic Steering Bleeding Instructions.