I/O Steering problem -- HELP !!!!?

Question

I have a 1990 21' Bowrider with a 5.7 Mercruiser 260 hp drive. When I am cruising under 3000 rpm I have no problem at all other than the steering seems sluggish. When I am cruising at speed and over 3000 rpm for no reason, the boat makes a sudden and un announced hard right hand turn. Also when I am cruising up to 2800 rpm then back off the throtle hard, it pulls hard to the right.

Any thoughts on this? The hydralic fluid is full and the boat runs and preforms great except for this problem.

Thanks for suggestions.

Answer 1

You have a steering cylinder issue and could be dangerous. Take it to shop and have them pressure test system. You have an imbalance in the valving for some reason
The anode everyone is referring to wont help. and a boat with power steering overcomes the the pull from prop torque.
All new outdrives use a flat anode and the finned style is a thing of the past unless you have a non power steering boat

Answer 2

You don't say the type of steering you have, but if it is rack and pinion check the rack and make sure it is not loose. Grease it and move the steering wheel back and forth. It should be no different at different rpm. You may have your trim tabs set in the wrong position. That will cause the boat to move erratic. Reset the trim tabs to full down position. Test.

Answer 3

Adj the trim rudder on the out drive there is a hex bolt on top turn the zinc clock wise looking down move 1/4 turn take out an try adj to no feed back on steering>?

Answer 4

Sounds kinda frightening!Have you ever adjusted the trim tab? Sounds like you might want to loosen it and turn it to the left a little.

Answer 5

check the zink part just above the prop, i forgot what its called but its adjustable.

Answer 6

paul has it right. potentially dangerous. take it to a pro.