Operation Steering System Operation The steering system for your Volvo Penta sterndrive is operated by a steering cable connected to the helm. Restricting movement of the steering cable will limit or stop the steering system’s hydraulic assist. Do not interfere with or restrict steering cable move- ment through the last 90° of bend at the engine. Do not use cable retainers, clamps, or tie straps. Using one or all of these could restrict the cable movement near the engine. Do not tie wiring harnesses or other control cables to the steering cable. Make sure deck combing and bulkheads allow for steering cable movement.
21182 If the power steering system stops working, it will feel harder to steer. If this condition occurs, look for possi- ble causes and fix them if possible. If the power steer- ing system cannot be corrected on board, proceed at a reduced speed. You will be able to steer the boat, but with increased effort. See your authorized Volvo Penta dealer as soon as possible to correct your pow- er steering system. 7743722 - Downloaded from www.volvopenta.com 13/05/2008 20:17:06 At slow speeds (no wake), your boat may tend to wan- der. This is normal and may be overcome by anticipat- ing bow direction and correcting with steering wheel.
A slightly higher throttle and trim setting may also lessen the tendency to “wander.” Changing weight distribution, aft to forward, can also affect slow speed steering. Twin Unit Steering Twin engine boats may have only one engine with a fully operational power steering system. That power steering system is on the starboard engine; therefore, when operating on a single engine use the starboard engine. NOTE! Using a port engine that does not have a functional power steering system will cause an increased effort in steering control, due to absence of power assist. Some twin engine boats may have both engine power steering systems coupled together with a priority valve.
This allows the use of either engine to provide power assist steering. 22761 VPA 7743722 English 10-2004 39