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Hynautic Steering Bleeding Instructions: Step-by-Step DIY Guide

Scott Barnes March 29, 2023

Hynautic Steering Bleeding Instructions: Step-by-Step DIY Guide

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.

Hynautic Bleeding Instructions

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.

Download Hynautic Bleeding Instructions

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.

Filed Under: Service Tagged With: How To's

Hynautic Steering Troubleshooting: The Complete Guide

Scott Barnes March 29, 2023

Hynautic Steering Troubleshooting: The Complete Guide

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.

Hynautic Steering Troubleshooting

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.

Filed Under: Service Tagged With: How To's

Scott Barnes May 9, 2020

Lenco Trim Tab Actuator 101 Replacement Guide

Last updated on March 29th, 2023 at 03:49 am

The Lenco Trim Tab Actuator 101 replacement is a very simple DIY job. We provide a video and guide below to show you exactly how to do this job.

Lenco 101 Actuator For Sale

The Lenco Trim Tab Actuator 101 features a ballscrew design which makes it far more reliable and also twice as powerful as other, traditional hydraulic actuators. These are easily controlled by a Lenco trim tab switch kit.

The Lenco 101 actuator is super tough and high-torque, capable of easily pushing 750 lbs. The connections for the Lenco marine actuator are waterproof and plug & play, which makes them super easy to connect and eliminate any chance of leaks.

Lenco Trim Tab Actuator 101

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UPC #: 874847003186

Lenco 101 & 102 Parts

The Lenco 101 and Lenco 102 come in various models and part numbers. Check the comparison chart below.

PARTSPART NUMBERCHECK PRICE
LENCO MARINE Actuator 101 Standard15054-001
CHECK PRICE
LENCO MARINE Actuator STD 4 1/4" 12V 5/16"15059-001
CHECK PRICE
Lenco 102 Series Standard Actuator - 24V - 4-1/4" Stroke15066-001
CHECK PRICE
LENCO MARINE Lenco 102XD Extreme Duty Actuator - 12V - 4-1/4" Stroke15060-001
CHECK PRICE
Lenco 101Xd Extreme Duty Actuator - 12V - 2 1/4" Stroke15056-001
CHECK PRICE

Lenco Trim Tab Actuator Replacement Guide

Over the years, the Lenco 101 actuator has seen numerous design improvements. Among them are molded-in brass thrust bearing, a stronger top cap with pressure tight torx screws, integrated seal at the base of the actuator, a stronger, thicker housing wall, over-molded cable for tighter, stronger seal, improved O-rings, and a gland seal on the upper mounting bracket.

At some point, you will likely need to replace your old actuator and upgrade to a newer one. If you are looking to replace your Lenco actuator, we have made it easy for you to view or download the Lenco Trim Tab Actuator Replacement Guide. You can also follow along in the video below to see how exactly to do a Lenco actuator replacement. It is a very simple, quick, and straightforward procedure.

Conclusion

As you can see, doing a Lenco trim tab actuator replacement is something that most people should be able to do themselves. The job shouldn’t take any longer than 30 minutes. Whether you get the Lenco 101 or Lenco 102 XD, you can be sure that you will get many years of great performance from your Lenco marine actuator.

Filed Under: Service, Trim Tabs Tagged With: How To's

Scott Barnes May 9, 2020

Lenco Auto Glide Review, Installation, & Owners Manual

Last updated on March 29th, 2023 at 03:50 am

If you are you looking for the Lenco Auto Glide kit review and installation guide, then you’ve come to the right place.

Lenco Auto Glide Review

The No products found. 15500-101 is an automatic boat control and trim tab control system which works automatically to provide a smoother ride and better fuel efficiency.

The Lenco marine Auto Glide system adjusts your Lenco trim tabs as necessary by using both GPS data and engine data (depending upon how you have it installed). This ensures that your boat is running at the most efficient angle as possible. After the installation process of the Lenco self leveling trim tabs kit, you will be able to determine the optimum running angle.

No products found.

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The system works by measuring your boat’s running angle about 25 times each second. It then takes this information into the control box and tells the Lenco auto trim tabs to do the following:

  • Ensures that your boat remains level at all times.
  • Eliminates bow bounce (porpoising).
  • Reduces how much bow rise there is during hole shot mode.
  • Determines and executes the most efficient boat running angle.

When these factors are combined, the result is a maximum fuel efficiency and smoothest ride.

What we liked even more during our review and testing was that the 15500-101 system has many features and options for the operator to choose from. For example, while you will most likely want to keep the system in automatic mode, you can very easily switch to manual mode simply by pressing a button on the key pad.

Lenco Auto Glide Parts

Please keep in mind that in order to use this system, your boat must already have the Lenco Single Trim Tab System with the Lenco Electric Actuators. Other than that, the kit comes with all of the Lanco Auto Glide parts that you need.

The key components are the control box, Key Pad, Control Box Main Harness, and of course various cables. The cables are used to connect the Lenco marine Auto Glide system to your GPS device, a Stand Alone GPS Receiver/Antenna, your engine(s), and your network.

The Kit Contains:

  • 1 30254-001D Auto Glide Key Pad Control
  • 3 30267-001D Tee Connector Only
  • 1 30281-001D Power Cable – NMEA 2000 Network 2.5′
  • 1 30268-002D Terminating Resistor – Male
  • 2 30268-001D Terminating Resistor – Female
  • 1 30262-001D CAN bus #2 GPS/NMEA 2000 Network Adapter Cable – 2.5′
  • 1 30266-001 NMEA 2000 GPS Antenna Only
  • 1 30248-001 Auto Glide Control Box Harness f/ Single Actuator
  • 1 30259-001D CAN bus #1 NMEA2000 Cable – 2.5′
  • 1 30255-001 Auto Glide Control Box f/ Single Actuator

Any spare parts or longer cables can be purchased separately, of course.

PARTSPART NUMBERCHECK PRICE
Lenco Auto Glide Adapter Extension Cable - 30'30260-004
CHECK PRICE
Lenco Auto Glide Adapter Extension Cable - 40'30260-005
CHECK PRICE
Lenco Auto Glide Adapter Extension Cable - 50'30260-006
CHECK PRICE
Lenco Auto Glide Control Box, Dual Actuator30256-001
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Lenco Gps Control Box Mtg Brkt70568-001
CHECK PRICE

Lenco Auto Glide Installation

If you can read and follow directions, then you should be able to tackle the Lenco Auto Glide installation as a DIY job. The owners manual with all of the installation instructions is linked below. Of course, having the system installed at your local dealer or marine shop is also always an option.

Lenco Auto Glide Owners Manual

The Lenco Auto Glide owner’s manual consists of two parts: A & B.

Part A of the Lenco Auto Glide owners manual is for the installation and setup procedures. You can download a copy of it here.

Part B of the owner’s manual is for operational instructions. You can download it here.

Lenco Auto Glide Troubleshooting

If you have having problems and need to do some Lenco Auto Glide troubleshooting, you should check out the video above, as well as consult part B of the owner’s manual. You can also download this handy Lenco AG Quick Reference Guide for further troubleshooting.

Lenco Auto Glide Price

The Lenco Auto Glide price will of course vary depending upon where you buy it. In our experience, Amazon typically has the best Lenco Auto Glide price out of all of the online retailers that we checked. However, you should check it out on Wolf Creek Depot and use code WCD10 for 10% off, as it may be cheaper for you there.

Conclusion

If you are looking to improve the handling and performance of your boat, then installing a Lenco Auto Glide kit is a great upgrade to consider. It can help make your boat safer and improve fuel efficiency, as well.

During our testing and review, we found the Lenco Auto Glide to be comparable in performance to the Bennett AutoTrim Pro system.

UPC #: 874847006712

Filed Under: Service, Trim Tabs Tagged With: How To's, manuals

Scott Barnes October 7, 2019

SeaStar Filler Kit: Fill and Bleed Your Steering System Like a Pro!

Last updated on March 29th, 2023 at 03:51 am

The SeaStar Filler Kit HA5438 makes it super easy to refill your SeaStar hydraulic steering system. Without this kit, you may struggle to properly refill your hydraulic steering system.

SeaStar Filler Kit HA5438

The SeaStar Filler Kit HA5438 includes the necessary fill tube along with a push-pin to vent the air. This fill tube enables you to easily fill your SeaStar hydraulic system.

The fill kit is for use with all inboard, outboard, and inboard/outboard SeaStar hydraulic helms.

A single station will require 2 quarts of SeaStar Hydraulic fluid in order to fill.

SeaStar Power Purge Jr

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SeaStar Fill Kit

This SeaStar fill kit is an essential if you plan to do any your own maintenance on your system. The SeaStar fluid is not cheap, as we all know, so you don’t want to be spilling or wasting any of it. The SeaStar fill kit will help reduce waste and make the job simple.

UPC #: 731957801074

Filed Under: Parts, Service Tagged With: How To's, purge

Scott Barnes October 5, 2019

Seastar Bubble Purge: Get Rid of Air Bubbles for a Seamless Boating Experience

Last updated on March 29th, 2023 at 03:51 am

The SeaStar Bubble Purge kit was created by Outdoor Specialty and was designed to make is easy for one person to easily bleed and purge their SeaStar hydraulic steering system.

The SeaStar Bubble Purge kit is leakproof and features a brass bottle cap attachment to easily fill your helm. It also has quick connect which allows for bottle replacement without the need to take off the whole fill tube in the middle of the job – making the job much cleaner and easier!

SeaStar Power Purge Jr

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The SeaStar Bubble Purge kit was designed for professional use, but can be easily used by those with basic skills. The cylinder attachment utilizes the fluid to push excess air out of your hydraulic steering system.

SeaStar Bubble Purge Kit

The SeaStar Bubble Purge kit includes the following items:

  • Cylinder bleed attachment
  • Fill tube/bottle cap attachment
  • Cylinder flush fitting
  • Helm fill threaded quick connect

The kit makes purging and filling your system very clean and easy. It also turns the process into a one man job. Watch the video below to see exactly how to use the bubble purge kit.

If you have any further questions, please contact Outboard Specialty Tools.

Filed Under: Parts, Service Tagged With: How To's, purge

BayStar Hydraulic Steering Kit HK4200A-3 Review & Installation Guide

Scott Barnes April 9, 2019

BayStar Hydraulic Steering Kit HK4200A-3 Review & Installation Guide

Last updated on April 3rd, 2023 at 05:57 am

When you use a traditional mechanical steering system on your boat, you are sacrificing a degree of comfort. And, while there have been traditional hydraulic steering systems on the market, most are more than what is needed on lower horsepower outboard boat engines. To help bridge that gap, SeaStar developed the BayStar Hydraulic Steering Kit HK4200A-3.

Baystar Hydraulic Steering Kit HK4200A-3 Review & Installation Guide

The BayStar hydraulic steering kit is made by the manufacturers of SeaStar, which is without a doubt the most trusted brand in pleasure boat hydraulic steering. SeaStar Solutions Hydraulic steering has a tradition of durability and efficiency, and the BayStar Hydraulic Steering Kit HK4200A-3 embodies those same traits. The BayStar kit was built for smaller outboards of up to 150 HP. It’s an ideal upgrade to mechanically steered boats under 150 HP, thanks to it’s affordable price and compact form factor.

BayStar Hydraulic Steering Kit HK4200A-3 Features

The BayStar Hydraulic Steering Kit HK4200A-3 comes with many of the great features that you would expect from a SeaStar Solutions product.

• For boats up to 150 horsepower.
• Lock-to-lock of 5 turns.
• Features patented No FeedBack™ Steering lock valves.
• Utilizes a fixed cylinder.
• Can be purchased as a complete, ready to install system, or as separate components.
• Optional Tilt.

BayStar Hydraulic Steering Kit HK4200A-3 Application

The BayStar Hydraulic Steering Kit HK4200A-3 was designed for single-outboard powered vessels that are rated up to 150 HP. This also includes inflatables and runabouts. This boat steering kit is for single engine use only. The BayStar hydraulic kit is not intended for high performance, high speed type boats, such as many popular Bass Boats.

The BayStar HK4200A-3 kit allows you to install all of the comfort, reliability, and safety of advanced hydraulic steering onto your boat. This BayStar kit carries on the tradition of bringing safety and comfort to boating. SeaStar solutions combined their strict ISO quality control and their superior design team, then used the finest precision manufacturing and materials to bring you this great BayStar steering kit.

The BayStar hydraulic steering system is made up of a very low friction helm for smooth-as-glass comfortable steering, and a balanced cylinder which features a compacted design which fits most splashwells. The kit comes with two pieces of 20’ cut to fit tubing and also two bottles of SeaStar hydraulic steering fluid, and also a convenient fill tube for simple fills and purges.

Please note that this BayStar steering kit is NOT designed for applications which require high steering effort (for example, high speed boats or those using high performance engines). Owners of those types of boats are advised to consider upgrading their steering system to SeaStar/SeaStar Pro steering. Steering effort is dramatically reduced due to the fact that the SeaStar steering kit provides higher output power which results in lower steering effort.

BayStar Hydraulic Steering Kit HK4200A-3 Installation

The BayStar hydraulic kit is fairly straight forward to install. If you are at all comfortable with tools and working on your boat, you might consider this as a DIY job. Of course, you can always have the kit installed at your local boat dealer. Below is a nice video from a guy who installed the kit on his boat.


BayStar Hydraulic Steering Kit HK4200A-3 Owner’s Manual

Prior to installation, you will likely want to take a look at the BayStar Hydraulic Steering owner’s manual, so we’ve made it easy for you to download. Just click on the link below. UPC #: 731957892799

You can download a copy of the BayStar Hydraulic Steering Kit’s owner’s manual here.Download

Filed Under: steering kits Tagged With: How To's

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