Rudders not moving - Maxum Boat Owners Club

moconnor · 07-30-2019, 11:53 AM

Morning all, We spent the weekend on our new to us 3700 for the first time.
We went on a short cruise, I'm still getting use to the twin vdrives but did ok,
After getting back in the slip I went into the engine compartment and had the wife turn the steering wheel with both motors running and it looks like the rutters are only moving a few degrees in either direction.
Any suggestions on where to start looking?

mmwjr · 07-30-2019, 12:26 PM

Check the fluid level on the steering pump at the helm as this is a hydraulic system that does not require the engines to be running. You also disconnect the steering ram and see if you can turn the rudders by hand to ensure they are free.

moconnor · 07-30-2019, 01:40 PM

thanks, Where do I gain access to that pump and motor? Also, I'm guessing that motor is 12v. This boat has auto pilot too, I've never had that before. Does that take over for the helm if engaged? I've not played with that yet....

mmwjr · 07-30-2019, 04:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by moconnor

thanks, Where do I gain access to that pump and motor? Also, I'm guessing that motor is 12v. This boat has auto pilot too, I've never had that before. Does that take over for the helm if engaged? I've not played with that yet....

It is a hydraulic pump no motor. It's right at the helm as the steering wheel attaches directly to it. Inboards and some Outboards use this type of system.

Google: how to fill and bleed marine hydraulic steering

shrew · 08-02-2019, 03:26 PM

Are you able to turn the wheel 'lock to lock'?

How many turns?

Do you feel 'thumping' in the wheel as you turn it?

moconnor · 08-02-2019, 06:29 PM

The wheel turns either way with no 'stop' locks....there is a slight 'thump' like it wants to try to turn but then let's go.
I'm headed to the boat tonight to check the steering fluid and I found the procedure to bleed the system online too....

thanks all....

moconnor · 08-04-2019, 09:12 PM

It was low on steering fluid. I'll check now for slow leaks....
thanks

shrew · 08-05-2019, 03:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by moconnor

The wheel turns either way with no 'stop' locks....there is a slight 'thump' like it wants to try to turn but then let's go.
I'm headed to the boat tonight to check the steering fluid and I found the procedure to bleed the system online too....

thanks all....

"Lock-to-Lock" is mor of a phrase. No, there are no 'stops', per se. IT should turn until you feel resistance. If you feel thumping as your turning the wheel, that would indicate that it is low on fluid.