BayStar Maintenance Issue

[Tortuga]

Hi all, I’ve got a BayStar steering system that’s about 17 years in service. Works flawlessly all these years, but I am now having a little slippage when I turn to port — starboard turn goes to full stop at lock; port turn goes to lock and stops, but wheel then slowly slips beyond where engine locks.

I’ve bled the system but it still occurs. I’m assuming it’s the seals in the cylinder but am wondering whether I should just replace the entire system considering it’s been in service for so long.

Any experience and/or suggestions will be gratefully accepted!

Matt

[tsturm]

[Tortuga]

It’s more than just the limited slip; it’s a constant slide that results in the helm being unable to keep the boat on course without constant active turning to port. Makes a long ride pretty unpleasant, and of course it seems like a failure waiting to happen.

[Tortuga]

Useful conversation on The Hull Truth for those interested:

https://www.thehulltruth.com/boating-how-tois-kerno-memorial-forum/1330679-hydraulic-steering-seastar-baystar.html

Seems it may be a leak on the internal seal of the steering cylinder — which after so many years is not surprising. I’m leaning toward replacing the while system which is not much more than replacing individual parts.

[SeaSpray]

I had a steering cylinder rebuilt at a local hydraulics shop. It has been working fine for several years since. It had a small leak. Much less expensive than replacing the system. I did have to remove it and then bleed the system when I replaced it.
Steve

[thataway]

The rebuild kits are even cheaper than having any component rebuit. There is no rocket science. The kit includes seals for the cylinder, plus tool necessary for pin wrench. The helm pump is aso reasonably simple to rebuild.

[tsturm]