Steering issues - Parker 23' cc 2007

[TonioMD]

Hello,
Was backing my boat off the lift yesterday and was unable to get the motor to turn to the left. I was able to turn it to the right, but now it's locked/stuck in that position. Steering wheel turns freely. Is it worth adding hydraulic fluid at the steering column and bleed the line? Any suggestions on what else To try, or is there risk causing more damage, and just call my boat mech? Is there a hydraulic fluid reservoir that I can check levels?

Boat gets plenty of use, 1-3 trips per week.
Appreciate your help and thoughts.
Thanks

 

[Bryan 2530]

Yeah, probably low on fluid. Mine just did this yesterday, took about 20cc to get it back.

I think the old weather causes fluid to contract and/or leak a little easier.

Easy fix, no need to call a mechanic.

 

[ceblizzard]

Most likely one of the check valves in the steering helm is stuck open, either due to rust, dirt, or a broken spring. Best to bleed out the fluid from the bleeders on the steering cylinder. Once you have all of the fluid out, go inside of the console and remove the 2 plugs in the bottom of the steering helm. You may have to take the steering lines and fittings out to gain enough clearance. Behind each plug is a spring and ball. If any component has any rust or foreign debris, they will have to be replaced.

Charlie,
Eden, Maryland

 

[TonioMD]

Thanks for the feedback/suggestions.

So picked up some hydraulic fluid and the pump, figured it's worth a shot. Tried the steering out first, and damn if it didnt work.

Added a little fluid to the steering area, just to see if the fluid was low. Only took about 1-2 oz.

Took the boat out for a 6+ hours of fishing, and didnt have any problems, yes a little daring, but i have Seatow, and there's worse places to get stuck than on the water with some fishing rods.

Could it have been the cold weather? though, i've taken the boat out in the winter in colder weather, thats for sure.

 

[DaleH]

Could it have been the cold weather? though, i've taken the boat out in the winter in colder weather, thats for sure.

It sure could have! As that fluid contracts in cooler temps, so what might have been 'enough' when the temps were warmer, weren't enough whence cold.

Also see: viewtopic.php?f=8&t=1972

And note, we once had 1 member here report that when they had experienced a failure to turn the one direction, though it turned OK in the other, it was due to a faulty (plugged) vent on the cap on the helm [which is in actuality - the 'pump' itself].

 

[TonioMD]

Thanks Dale! Appreciate the link to your other post/tip, I will definitely give that a shot.