Hydraulic Steering; Propeller Torque - Four winns FREEDOM Owner's Manual

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.
If equipped with power steering, check the fluid
level in the reservoir periodically. Low power
steering fluid levels may increase steering diffi-
culty.
After the first two hours of running time, check
the entire steering system for loose bolts, nuts
and fasteners which could adversely affect steer-
ing control.
NOTICE
When storing equipment in the engine compart-
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 steering unit to either ex-
treme. This can place undue strain on the unit
and can lead to hydraulic line or seal failure.
It is important that the power steering fluid be maintained
at the proper level. Do not over fill the power steering
pump reservoir. Please consult the section in the en-
gine manual regarding steering system and mainte-
nance. The engine manual is included in the owner's
packet. Also included in you owner's packet is the steer-
ing manufacturer's literature.
D. Hydraulic Steering
The hydraulic steering system is comprised of the helm
pump and reservoir, hydraulic hoses, and the hydraulic
cylinder. The helm assembly acts as a pump to move
the oil through the system. In many aspects this type of
steering is similar to the mechanical system. Instead of
activating a cable, turning of the helm causes fluid in the
hydraulic hoses to flow and activate the hydraulic cylin-
der causing the rudders or outboards to turn. See Fig-
ure G2.
Freedom™/Horizon™ Owner's Manual

Hydraulic Steering

Piston Rod
Figure G2: Hydraulic Steering
Upon commissioning the boat, it is necessary to purge
the system of air. This is performed by your Four Winns
dealer during pre-delivery service. Should steering diffi-
culty increase with time, it is possible additional bleeding
of the system is required. See your Four Winns dealer
for assistance. This and other adjustments on power
steering units are critical and should be performed only
by a qualified service technician.
NOTICE
If equipped with the hydraulic system, a slight
clicking sound may be heard as the wheel is
turned. This sound is the opening and closing
of valves in the helm unit; this is normal.
G - 2

PROPELLER TORQUE

The propeller rotation of a single engine installation will
exert a directional force on the steering system. This
can cause the steering to be harder in one direction than
the other, and is called propeller torque. If this occurs,
adjust the drive or outboard's trim tab (when applicable).
Refer to the engine manual, included in the owner's
packet, for information on adjusting the trim tab.
Propeller torque can also cause the boat to wander (not
follow a straight line) when operated at low speeds. This
condition is normal and can be corrected only by increas-
ing engine rpm. Wind, water currents and play in steer-
ing components can cause equivalent effects.
Section G
Page 2