Four winns SL series, Owner'S Manual

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Owner’s Manual Page 63 Steering Systems - Section G
G - 2 PROPELLER TORQUE
The propeller rotation of a single engine operation
will exert a directional force on the steering sys tem.
Propeller torque can also cause the boat to wander
(not follow a straight line) when operat ed at low speeds.
This condition is normal and can be corrected only by
increasing engine RPM. Wind, water currents and play
in steering compo nents can cause equivalent effects.
Ste ering ef fort can vary sig nifi cant ly with
en gine ac cel era tion, stee ring an gle, trim an gle,
and sea condition. Be prepared for additional
steering loads at all times.
G - 3 STEERING SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
A. General Maintenance
A periodic inspection of all steering cables, linkage
and helm assemblies should be made. Signs of
corrosion, cracking, loosening of fasten ings,
excessive wear, or deterioration should be imme di-
ately corrected. Failure to do so could lead to steering
system failure and corresponding loss of control.
NOTICE
Check all bolts, nuts and fasteners for tightness.
B. Rotary System Maintenance
The helm and cable assembly should be so adjust ed
that the steering wheel is centered with the drive
or outboard engine in the straight ahead position.
There should be an equal number of turns to port
and starboard from the straight ahead position.
If adjustment becomes neces sary, see your
Four Winns dealer.
Check all metal parts at the cable output end for
corrosion. Remove any old grease from the cable
ram and motor swivel connections using a mild
solvent such as WD-40. Spray the cleaned areas
with a moisture-displacing lubri cant and apply a light
coat of good quality marine grease. Do this with the
ram fully extend ed. See Figure G3.
The cable must be free and clear to slide back and
forth. Any item blocking free movement of the cable
will result in harder steering and possible damage
to the steer ing cable.
If the power steering system cannot be corrected on
board, proceed at a reduced speed. The boat will be
steerable, but with increased effort. Return the boat
to your Four Winns dealer as soon as possible to
correct the power steering system.
Check the power steering fluid level in the
reservoir periodically. Low power steering fluid
levels may in crease steering difficulty.
After the first two hours of running time, check
the entire steering system for loose bolts, nuts
and fasteners which could adversely affect
steering control.
NOTICE
When storing equipment in the engine com-
part ment, be sure to avoid contact with the
steering cable. Cables may become kinked or
damaged and may increase steering effort.
NOTICE
DO NOT force the s teer ing unit to ei ther ex-
treme. This can place undue strain on the unit
and can lead to hydrau lic line or seal fail ure.
It is important that the power steering fluid be main
-
tained at the proper level. Do not over fill the power
steering pump reservoir. Please consult the section
in the engine manual regarding steering system and
maintenance. The engine manual is included in the
owner’s packet.