Category: Steering

Different kinds of boats are steered by various means. A tiller-steered boat is operated on an outboard motor with the steering mechanism attached directly to the motor and the propellers. A large powerboat with an inboard motor is steered like a car by way of a steering wheel that is attached to a rudder. A sailboat is steered with a wheel as well, but utilizes the sails and the rudder to move in different directions. Various designs are incorporated into the three basic steering designs to provide even more options for steering.

The power steering system on your car operates under high pressure, making leaks a common problem. To find and fix a leak, there are several points you need to inspect between the steering pump and steering gear assembly. On most steering systems, you can follow specific procedures found in this article in order to solve the problem .

Boat steering problems require a systematic approach, whether the problem be a tight steering wheel, a broken or damaged steering cable or a hesitation or “hitch” in the steering.

Boat steering problems should be solved at the earliest opportunity ashore, just like steering problems in the family car need to be fixed before going on a trip.