Seastar vs Uflex

[shortpants]

Any opinions?  looking to buy and found that the Uflex is a few hundred cheaper then the Teleflex Seastar.

[GoneFission]

I vote for SeaStar.  They are the most popular, so you can also find them on eBay at very reasonable prices.  Note some new engines have power steering - like the Mercury Verados.  That means when someone repowers with a Verado, they have to get rid of their old system, which just may be a SeaStar.  So keep an eye on eBay if you don't like to pay retail:

http://shop.ebay.com/?_from=R40&_trksid ... Categories  

See ya on the water!

[seabob4]

Not so fast there, Cap'n John.  One can actually use either a Uflex helm or cylinder in a Seastar system.  Now, Verados are different then what we know as a "traditional" helm and cylinder, they also utilize a Power Steering pump.  But the standard Uflex helms and cylinders with fit in nicely on an existing Seastar system.  If any of you know ScarabChris (Coastalnightlights) over on THT, I recently got him a Uflex helm to replace the Seastar he had (he was fed up with Teleflex...) on his twin 250 Etec/dual cylinder install and it has worked like a charm.  

It is my thinking that more and more people are going to be going the Uflex route.  Do some searching on THT under steering problems, you will see a ton of threads on Teleflex issues.  That's not to say they are "bad", as the majority of builders have been using Teleflex for years.  I'm just saying a lot of people have problems with them.  Mainly check and bypass valves failing in the helms, and endcap seals failing on the cylinders.

Another thing to keep in mind.  When Merc was developing the Verado, especially the L6 models, they had several different companies develop steering systems for the motors.  They ended up going with Uflex...

Just my $.02

[shortpants]

So,  If I understand what your saying, I can use the Uflex helm with the Teleflex cylinder?   Both front mount cylinders look similar.

[seabob4]

So,  If I understand what your saying, I can use the Uflex helm with the Teleflex cylinder?   Both front mount cylinders look similar.

Short,
That is exactly correct.  ScarabChris's problem was a faulty helm, his motors kept falling over to one side or the other due to a faulty check valve.  He didn't get much response from Teleflex, so he went with a Uflex helm.  Hasn't had a problem since, and he has twin Teleflex HC5345 cylinders on his Etecs.

[GoneFission]

Thanks for the clarification Bob - and you are right, the SeaStar and Uflex systems are compatible.  You can interchange cylinders and pumps back and forth - you can even intermix with old Syten components if you want.  Basically they are all hydraulic pumps and dual pressure cylinders.    

I've heard some rumors about SeaStar quality problems, but I personally don't know anyone who has had a premature failure.  (Reminds me of the Mercury oil injection problem that isn't a problem - but that's another story)  A lot of THT comments seem to come from raving lunatics/maniacs who may have questionable motives and understanding.     As with most boat things, it seems to me that most failures are caused by bad installation or poor maintenance.  For example, some folks I know use automatic transmission fluid in their steering cylinders.  They say "it's hydraulic oil right?  Besides GM says to use it in my $50,000 Caddie, so it must be good."  Then they bitch when the cylinder or helm starts leaking because the seals are not compatible with the additives in ATF.   :x  

My main point was that there are a LOT more SeaStar sytems and parts out there than Uflex, so picking up a system or part in the used/replacement market (like eBay or Craigs) will be easier and probably cheaper.  It's like the brake pads on my vehicles - a set for one costs $40 a pair because they made a million of them, while a set for another car cost $250 because they only made a few.  

So my advice would be to pick the system you like, know how to install and maintain, and be happy with it!  

[seabob4]

John,
You are absolutely correct about the maintenance issues.  The install is very straightforward for both systems, the bleeding procedure can be a bit confusing to some, but if the directions in the manual are followed, the owner's will get their systems properly bled.  As far as the fluid goes, well, any idiot who uses ATF (fine for Bennett trim tabs) in their system is just that, an idiot.  Teleflex and Uflex both state in their install manuals what are acceptable Hyd. oils to use, and ATF isn't one of them.

One of the keys is to watch for any crap on the cylinder ram that could cause seal issues or corrosion.  Another issue that can cause pitting of the ram (which leads to leaking seals) is stray current in a marina.  Teleflex has a bonding strap available for that fix, could just as easily install it on a Uflex cylinder.

As usual, John, the key to keeping anything, your boat, your car, your house, whatever, is to maintain it and treat it well...

[akbridge]

I have a Teleflex Baystar system and I like it.  It is priced well, as it is meant for smaller boats with less than 150Hp, I think.  I know there have been failures with teleflex systems, but with so many of them out there.  You are bound to see issues now and then.  I know of too many people with 15 year old seastar systems that needed a seal once or twice but still work great for them.  I can't say anything about a Uflex system, but I bet they work great.  I would go with what you can get at the best price as long as they are rated for the same power.  

As a side note, if anyone wants lines made for their teleflex system or bobs jackplate.  My company buys a lot of hydraulic parts from the same supplier as bobs and powerpole.  We get good prices on hydraulic parts and can have custom lines made.  And I would be happy to help out any ClassicAquasport member.

[seabob4]

I have a Teleflex Baystar system and I like it.  It is priced well, as it is meant for smaller boats with less than 150Hp, I think.  I know there have been failures with teleflex systems, but with so many of them out there.  You are bound to see issues now and then.  I know of too many people with 15 year old seastar systems that needed a seal once or twice but still work great for them.  I can't say anything about a Uflex system, but I bet they work great.  I would go with what you can get at the best price as long as they are rated for the same power.  

As a side note, if anyone wants lines made for their teleflex system or bobs jackplate.  My company buys a lot of hydraulic parts from the same supplier as bobs and powerpole.  We get good prices on hydraulic parts and can have custom lines made.  And I would be happy to help out any ClassicAquasport member.

Now that's an offer no one can refuse!