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NOTICE
Only use manufacturer's suggested hydraulic
fluid. The hydraulic steering uses a fluid which
meets Mil H5606 specifications. Please note
that automatic transmission fluid (Dexron II) may
be used in an emergency. Never use brake
fluid.
NOTICE
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.
Additional information on steering operation can be found
in your Engine Owner's manual.
G - 2
STEERING LOAD
A load is placed on the steering system by the propeller
torque, and/or water flowing past the rudder. The steer-
ing system is designed to normalize the effort required to
turn the steering wheel throughout the average operating
speed range and general rudder position. This is an ad-
vantage when the boat is on plane. This can be some-
what of a disadvantage at lower speeds in that the steer-
ing effort is not reduced to a level where it can be wheeled
"lock to lock" without a concentrated turning effort.
Steering effort can vary significantly with engine
acceleration, steering angle, trim angle, and sea
condition. Be prepared for additional steering
loads at all times.
G - 3
RUDDER
The 378's dual v-drives have two rudders. These are
coupled together at the tiller arms by a tie bar. The rud-
ders are toed-in at the front to provide maximum stability
on straight ahead runs and proper tracking through cor-
ners. Rudder alignment is preset at the Four Winns
factory. Further alignment adjustments should not be
necessary unless the rudder or steering system incurs
damage. See Figures G2, G3, & G4.
378 Vista™ Owner's Manual
™
378
Rudder Alignment Procedures:
1. Dimension A must be 1/2" to 3/4" larger than dimen-
sion B.
2. Dimension A & B must be measured between the
inside faces and at the bottom of the rudders.
Figure G2: Rudder Alignment Specifications
G - 4
RUDDER ANGLE/POSITION INDICATOR
A rudder angle/position indicator is a device that indicates
the location of the rudders relative to the straight ahead
position. Such a unit is provided on the 378 Vista™ and
consists of a gauge on the dash and an electrical send-
ing unit connected to a rudder tiller arm or the steering
assembly. See Figures G2 & G3.
The reading on the gauge can be adjusted by loosening
the three screws securing the electrical sending unit and
turning the sending unit either clockwise and counter-
clockwise slightly. The reading will vary accordingly.
Figure G3: Hydraulic Steering
Section G
Page 2
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