Understanding Boat Rack-And-Pinion Steering Systems

Rack and pinion steering is a type of steering system used in boats. It is important to ensure that the steering system is functioning properly to avoid costly repairs and to be able to enjoy time out on the water. The Teleflex Steering rack system is a popular option for power-assisted steering boats and is known for its easy installation. The system includes a pinion gear that is fitted directly to the steering shaft, engaging with a rack gear in a tubular housing. While rack steering is efficient, it may not fit behind many dashboards due to its width. It is also important to regularly maintain the steering system and replace parts as needed to ensure safe and smooth operation.

Troubleshooting and adjustment

• Difficulty turning the steering wheel: This could be due to a bad cable or corrosion in the steering guide tube. Check if the steering is tight even when the outboard is disconnected. If so, pull the cable out of the guide tube and see if the wheel is easier to turn. If it is, clean the inside of the tube with a brush and apply marine grease. If the steering is still tight, you may need to replace the entire steering system.
• Stiff steering: If your boat's steering is stiff, it could be due to a faulty cable or corrosion. Check for any leaks or loose parts. If there are no obvious issues, it may be necessary to replace the steering cable or the entire steering system.
• Unresponsive steering: If your boat continues to cruise straight when you turn the steering wheel, you may have an unresponsive steering issue. This is usually caused by wear and tear on the steering rack and will require repair or replacement.
• Steering wheel vibration: If you experience shaking or vibration in the steering wheel, especially on uneven roads, it could indicate a worn steering rack. Pay attention to the severity of the vibration and any accompanying noises to help diagnose the issue.
• Clunking noise when turning: A clunking or knocking sound when turning the steering wheel could indicate a worn steering rack. This issue is typically more noticeable at low speeds.
• Tight steering wheel: If you have to exert a lot of force to turn the steering wheel, it could be due to a problem with the power steering pump, motor, or electronics. This issue can vary in severity and may be constant or intermittent.
• Steering wheel not returning: If your steering wheel does not return to the original 12 o'clock position after turning, it could be due to a clogged power steering system or a car alignment issue. Test this by driving slowly in a straight line, turning the wheel, and observing whether the wheel returns to the centre position.
• Fluid leaks: If you notice oil stains or a decrease in steering fluid levels, you may have a fluid leak. This is more common in hydraulic power steering systems. Check for wet components and leaking hoses, and ensure you are using the correct type of steering fluid.

Teleflex problems

Rack and pinion steering systems are a vital part of any boat and should be regularly maintained. The Teleflex Steering rack system is a great option for power-assisted steering boats. However, some users have reported issues with their Teleflex steering systems.

One common problem is difficulty turning the steering wheel, which can feel stiff or tight. This could be due to a bad cable, corrosion in the steering guide tube, or issues with the steering head or cable. It is recommended to check the cable first, as this is often the culprit and can be replaced without needing to modify the dash. If the cable looks good, then the issue may lie with the helm.

Another potential issue is with the steering rod freezing up inside the tilt tube. This can be resolved by removing the steering rod from the motor and cleaning out the inside of the tilt tube with a penetrating lubricant. It is important to ensure that all parts of the steering system are well-lubricated to prevent freezing and ensure smooth operation.

In some cases, the entire steering system may need to be replaced, especially if the boat is older and the parts are worn out. It is also suggested to upgrade to a rotary no-feedback style steering system, which offers easier steering and better performance.

It is always recommended to consult a professional marine mechanic when dealing with boat steering issues to ensure proper diagnosis and repair.

Rotary no-feedback steering systems

NFB systems lock out steering torque to make steering easier. The wheel doesn't move until the driver turns it, which makes steering more efficient and less work. This is in contrast to rack and pinion systems, where the wheel is always harder to turn in one direction than the other.

NFB systems are a popular and easy DIY "drop-in" replacement that fits into nearly all Morse, Teleflex and SeaStar rotary steering dashboard cutouts. The design cuts installation time and allows for an upgrade to precision steering in a very short time.

The system combines the power of 4.2 turns (lock to lock) with No FeedBack technology to lock out steering loads. It includes a powerful NFB rotary helm, 90° bezel, kit and steering cable. It is suitable for boats with outboards up to V-6, with speeds up to 50 mph, and for single-station use only.

Dual cable systems

The Teleflex dual cable steering system is a popular choice for single-station, high-performance boats with single, non-power-assisted outboards (up to V-6). It offers precise control and combines it with the precision of a four-turn lock-to-lock mechanism. The dual cables in this system minimize lost motion, ensuring a smooth and responsive steering experience.

The Teleflex NFB Pro Rack Outboard Dual Cable Steering System is a notable example of such systems. It is designed as a drop-in replacement for Teleflex's "The Rack" and is suitable for high-performance hulls and motors. The system meets A.B.Y.C. standards and N.M.M.A. certification requirements, ensuring reliability and safety.

It is important to note that while dual cable systems offer improved performance, they may not be suitable for all boats. For dual cable-steered, non-power-assisted outboards and sterndrives, it is recommended to use No-FeedBack steering systems instead.

Installation and maintenance

The Teleflex Steering rack system is a good option for power-assisted steering boats. It is easy to install, with a simple four-turn lock-to-lock operation. The cable and helm are installed from behind the dash, and no modifications to the dash are required. The Teleflex system is recommended when 4-turn options are needed. Kits include the cable, helm, 90-degree bezel, and hardware. The back mount rack design allows for quick placement in the dash, and the mounting hardware fits industry-standard Teleflex rack holes.

To install a rack and pinion steering system, the steering gear input shaft is splined to the steering shaft U-joint. The pinion gear is located at the end of the steering gear input shaft, which extends into the rack housing. Two ball bearings are used to reduce friction between the shaft and the steering gear housing. A small metal tube is often used to connect the two boots and transfer air from one to the other, to prevent them from collapsing or exploding. The tie rods are kept secure with internal threads on each end of the rack, and a rubber boot covers the end of the rack and the inner tie rod to keep out dirt, water, and other contaminants. Band clamps fasten the ends of the boots to the housing and tie rods. The tie rods connect the rack to the wheels through the steering linkage, and the housing bolts to a flange on the firewall, or to the subframe or engine cradle. Rubber cushions are used at the mounting points to isolate the steering gear from shock and vibration.

To maintain your rack and pinion steering system, regularly check the power steering fluid level and top it up if necessary. Low fluid levels can cause damage to the system. Keep your wheels properly aligned to prevent excessive wear on the steering components, and avoid driving over potholes or curbs, which can damage the system. Use the correct type of power steering fluid as recommended by the manufacturer, and follow the recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle, including regular inspections and fluid changes.

Frequently asked questions