Helm/Cylinder & Power Assist Checks - Dometic HC4645H Troubleshooting Manual

20
6.4 Helm/cylinder & power assist
checks
1. Verify if the steering system is sticky/inconsistent
• Perform test with the power assist unit turned off (Ignition turned off).
• Turn steering wheel from hard over to hard over. While turning, feel
for a smooth, responsive turn in both directions. If bumpy, sticking,
or inconsistent in either direction or when reversing direction, you
have verified that the system is sticky/inconsistent.
NOTICE!
A slight ticking sound from the helm is not to be confused with stickiness.
2. Check the steering system for air
NOTE
Both of the following tests are to be performed with the power assist unit
turned off (ignition off).
• Test #1: Manually push engines back and fourth by hand. While
pushing, watch for movement of the steering cylinder body. Any
movement that exceeds 1/4" on the steering cylinder is a sign that
there is air in the steering system.
• Test #2: Count steering wheel turns from hard over to hard over.
If wheel turns exceed the number noted in the tables on page 17
and page 18 by more than 1/2 turn (with the power assist OFF),
this is a sign that there is air in the system.
3. Bleed steering system
• Consult with your power assist owner's manual for bleeding details.
4. Torque end glands
• Using a torque wrench, and the pin wrench available from Dometic,
torque ALL end glands to 50 ft-lb.
5. Check cylinders for leaks
• Visually inspect ALL areas of the steering cylinder (end glands, hose
bleeder fittings etc.) for any signs of a leak. Signs of leaks include, oil
residue found in area around cylinder, oil collecting in transom area.
6. Check cylinder shaft for; pitting, corrosion or marks
• Visually inspect ALL areas of the steering cylinder shaft for any signs
of pitting, corrosion or marks.
NOTE
Please check all around cylinder, even in the hard to see areas. Even
the slightest impurities of the cylinder shaft should be considered as
a potential problem.
• Run fingernail along shaft, feeling for any burrs or scratches.
EN