Everglades 320 EX, Owner'S Manual

Page: 52 / 170

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Helm Control Systems
Steering System Maintenance
A periodic inspection of all steering hoses, linkage
and helm assemblies should be made. Signs of
corrosion, cracking, loosening of fastenings, ex-
cessive wear or deterioration should be corrected
immediately.
The fluid level for the hydraulic steering should be
checked frequently and maintained at the proper
level. The steering fluid level on power assist
systems should be maintained at no less than
1/2” below the bottom of the fill plug hole on the
hydraulic power assist pump reservoir located in
the compartment on the starboard side of the
cockpit next to the helm seat. Only use power
steering fluid recommended by the steering sys -
tem manufacturer when adding fluid.
Generally, periodic lubrication of all moving parts
and connections with a light waterproof grease is
in order. Check the hydraulic hoses and fittings
for chaffing, rub marks and leaks. Replace if
necessary. Failure to do so could lead to steering
system failure that would result in loss of control.
When new or after repairs, hydraulic steering
systems may need to have all air purged from
the system. Only use hydraulic steering fluid
recommended by the steering system manu-
facturer. Difficult steering and premature seal
failure can result if the wrong fluid is used in the
steering system. Review the information provided
by the steering system manufacturer for proper
specifications and details on system service and
maintenance.
Trim Tab Maintenance
The trim tab actuators are electric and require no
routine maintenance except to periodically inspect
the tab actuators for corrosion or marine growth
and test the system to ensure that it is operating
properly.
Marine growth can interfere with the proper op-
eration of the trim tab planes and actuators. To
reduce problems due to marine growth, always
return the trim tabs to the full “UP” position af -
ter operating the boat and periodically inspect
and clean marine growth from the actuators and
planes.
If the boat is kept in the water, the trim tabs
must be equipped with a zinc anode to prevent
galvanic corrosion. Galvanic corrosion is the cor-
rosion process occurring when different metals
Typical Trim Tab Dual Actuators
Power Steering Unit in Compartment on
Starboard Side of the Helm
are submerged in an electrolyte. Seawater is an
electrolyte and submerged metal components
must be properly protected. The anodes will need
to be changed when they are 75% of their original
size. Refer to the Routine Maintenance chapter of
this manual for information on maintaining zinc
anodes.