I'm on the lookout for a hydraulic steering system...

[Curapa]

I wouldn't mind going with the Seastar system but the cheapest I have found was in the $750 range and I'm not willing to spend that, especially with the costs of the redo already mounting. I'll keep an eye out for the composite helms, every used part I have seen so far has been pitted or corroded...

I plan on powering with a 150 max so the Baystar system should serve my needs.

[phatdaddy]

have you tried the no-feedback cable system? i know it's not hydraulic, but it's a close cousin.

[spareparts]

the bay star is barely enough for 150 hp, I don't recommend it to any one running more than 130. The Uflex accura no feed back system is pretty nice, I like it better than the Teleflex NFB and its a whole lot cheaper than hydraulic. There's one more hydraulic system out there, I can't remember the name and don't know anything about it, begins with an M I think. I don't think its any cheaper though. Liability is the major cost of steering systems, not the system itself

[Curapa]

I had a no feedback Teleflex system in my 18' and I was pretty happy with it, still some room for improvement though. The main reason for wanting to upgrade to hydraulic is because I am bracketing the V and I have been told on several occasions it was almost necessary for bracketed boats. I don't want to buy a no feedback system then realize I'll need to upgrade later.

[spareparts]

pony up, buy the sea star. be done with it

[Curapa]

Man, you don't know how the internet works? You're supposed to tell me what I want to hear, not what I actually need.

[Genie Aye]

Originally Posted by phatdaddy

have you tried the no-feedback cable system? i know it's not hydraulic, but it's a close cousin.

Not close--lol---I had a dual no feed back cable---never again. after 33+ years I put hyd steering on a trailer boat(I had hyd on my 33'). I got a MAROL system on my V-20 and could not be happier---and my steering does not get a bit stiffer each year anymore. It is a investment in your happiness for years to come.

[Genie Aye]

Look at the Marol--the seastar uses bushings in its helm(pump)---Marol uses 2 bearings--front and rear on their helm (pump)---longevity---cost--should be $ for $.

[spareparts]

Marol! That's the name I was thinking of

[tartuffe]

I found a good used system on Craigslist for around the $300 mark. I did have to have the connection fittings changed out for around $60 so they are out there.