convert manual steering to hyd cat 161

[maxwell18]

Just wondering if anybody has converted manual steering to hyd on a Cat 161 Aquasport. I looked at BayStar hyd kit but don't understand the concept of not having a hyd pump sourse? Looks like the hoses hook up to the steering wheel hub and some way or form that provides pressure to move the piston? Any ideas?
Thanks

[Capt. Bob]

Just wondering if anybody has converted manual steering to hyd on a Cat 161 Aquasport. I looked at BayStar hyd kit but don't understand the concept of not having a hyd pump sourse? Looks like the hoses hook up to the steering wheel hub and some way or form that provides pressure to move the piston? Any ideas?
Thanks

You guessed it.
The helm control supplied with the kit is the pump (helm, cylinder, hoses). You may be able to use your existing wheel. Many mount to the helm/pump. Mine always have.
I can't speak for everyone on the Forum or your particular model but I'd venture a guess and say almost all of us with hydraulic steering have this type.

[wingtime]

What Capt Bob said.  The helm is the pump.  When you turn the wheel it pumps fluid to one side of the cylinder and pulls fluid from the other side of the cylinder moving it in the direction you want to go.  Kind of like hydraulic brakes or clutch in your car.  Pushing the pedal pumps fluid to the calipers or brake cylinder that apply the brakes.

[Capt Matt]

Check out the U-flex system.
Capt Matt

[maxwell18]

Thanks for the replies. Having said all that, is this system very effective, easy and steady steering?

[Capt. Bob]

Beats the hell out of cable steering, for the very reasons you mentioned.
IMHO.

[slvrlng]

Check out the U-flex system.
Capt Matt

X2

[Circle Hooked]

Think of it from a safety aspect also, no cables to snap, some insurance company's won't insure a boat with cable steering.