Steering System Operation - Volvo Penta V8-350 Operator's Manual

P0016581
47707742 09-2016 © AB VOLVO PENTA

Steering System Operation

While directional control of a boat's steering system
operates much like that of an automobile, a boat's
responsiveness and maneuverability is very different
from that of a car. Avoid high-speed maneuvers until
you become accustomed to driving your boat. Keep in
mind that a boat is never as maneuverable when
moving in reverse as it is when travelling forward.
If the power steering system stops working, the
steering wheel will still function but it will feel harder to
steer. If this condition occurs, look for possible causes
and fix them if possible. If the power steering system
cannot be corrected on board, proceed at a reduced
speed. You will be able to steer the boat, but with
increased effort. See your authorized Volvo Penta
dealer as soon as possible to correct your power
steering system.
At slow speeds (no wake), your boat may tend to
wander due to wind and current. This is normal and
may be overcome by anticipating bow direction and
correcting with steering wheel. A slightly higher throttle
and trim setting may also lessen the tendency to
wander. Changing weight distribution, aft to forward,
can also affect slow speed steering.
Operation
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