Mastering the Helm: Your Boat Steering Guide

​Boat steering is a key component of boat performance that can make or break your enjoyment on the water. When your steering isn’t right, you lose faith and confidence in your boat, not to mention the fact that it can be unsafe. To understand what can go wrong, it’s a good idea to first understand how boat steering works and the different types of boat steering systems. 

How do boats steer

The key parts of a steering system are the helm, steering wheel (or tiller), steering cable and cable connections. 

When the driver turns the steering wheel left or right, the helm basically converts this rotation to a push or pull motion on the steering cable, which turns the outboard or more importantly rudder and prop in the direction you want to go.   
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There are different types of steering depending on the size of your boat and how you like to drive. 
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Types of boat steering

The three main types of steering are tiller (e.g. tiller handle), mechanical steering and hydraulic steering. 

Tiller steer
Refers to the tiller handle attached to the outboard motor. As the tiller is attached to the outboard, turning it either left or right, directly turns the outboard motor. 

They are common on smaller, lightweight outboards, and they can be a cost-effective option. 

Pros
​Less components that are susceptible to damage or seizing – e.g. steering cables. Also, less items that need servicing – saving you money in the long run. If you’re buying new, they’re a cheaper option as they don’t require helm/cables and there’s less labour to install the motor.

They can also help make the boat more maneuverable, particularly for smaller vessels and engines.

Cons 
Can be uncomfortable as it means you have to sit at the back with your hand up on the tiller. While they come with a tiller extension, they do require you to sit at the back of the boat. Plus, if your boat is filled with passengers your visibility can be impaired. The plastic bushes in the joint of the tiller arm have a tendency to become worn and create a wobbly feel.

Mechanical steering
Mechanical steering works with a push/pull cable that connects the steering wheel and helm to the outboard motor through steering cables. 

Pros
Usually, it’s more comfortable for the driver and easier to steer. The console makes it feel like you have better control, and you have better visibility. 

Cons
More parts to corrode and replace, which can lead to stiff or even seized steering. As a guide you’ll need to replace your steering cable every 6 years. Also, your steering can break when the cable is seized as more force can be applied damaging both cable and helm. They also require more maintenance and lubrication.

Finally, mechanical requires more force to turn the steering wheel and can feel like driving an older car. 
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Hydraulic steering
Hydraulic steering systems for outboard motors works by pumping fluid when the steering wheel is turned. The fluid is pumped through the hydraulic line into the cylinder that controls the steering by moving the cylinder rod, effectively turning the engine either left or right. 
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Pros
Outboard hydraulic steering takes a lot of the effort out of steering your boat, much like power steering on a car. It provides a smoother, more precise and lightweight feel.

Great in an emergency as it takes a lot less effort to get out of trouble quickly.
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The other plus side is that they take less maintenance as there are fewer metal parts. Cables can corrode easily, which is avoided with hydraulic steering. 

Hydraulic steering kit

​Cons
These systems are on the pricier side and you’ll be up for around $2000 for hydraulic steering kit and installation.
You need to check the oil level on a regular basis and this should be topped up every 4 months.
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Upgrading to hydraulic boat steering

Of the many steering upgrades we’ve done, all our customers have been stoked with the results.

Smooth, responsive steering gives you so much more enjoyment and confidence on the water. If you’re experiencing stiff, unresponsive, and heavy steering, or if your steering turns sharply under acceleration – it’s time to upgrade.

On the downside, hydraulic steering doesn't come cheap and you may be over capitalising on your boat. 

Get in touch for a no-obligation quote. 
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Steering maintenance

Make sure you keep your steering free by turning it lock to lock every six weeks to prevent corrosion and parts seizing. You should also lube your steering cable to keep it free. You can also spray the steering arm with lubricant after each use.

While preventative maintenance is always the goal, from time-to-time steering gets stiff and you'll need to unfreeze the steering cable. This is best done by a professional - if all fails you may need to replace the steering cable. ​
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Steering repairs

​There comes a point where you’ll need a professional fix for your steering issues.

If your steering is stiff, seized or you can see cracks in the cable or signs of corrosion it’s time to replace your steering cable – or upgrade to hydraulic.

If you’re having steering issues, or you’d like advice on upgrading your steering, get in touch with the GT Marine crew. 

Want to keep learning? 

Check out our full range of articles on a range of boating topics here.