Maintenance: Steering
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Power steering reservoir fluid level
The oil recovery tank is a see-through reservoir,
check oil level without opening the reservoir. Oil
should be right below the neck of the recovery tank.
If oil needs to be added, first disconnect quick con-
nect coupling, before opening the cap.
Do not allow contaminants to enter the reservoir
when checking or filling the oil level.
WARNING! Never fill the steering system with
an oil of unknown quality. Non recommended
oil may cause steering operation impairment or
component damage.
Steering System
1. Check steering and throttle cables for cracks and
wear. Check all along the length of the cable, as
shown in the diagram. Replace the cables if you
suspect that they are not in optimum condition.
2. Check steering system hoses for cracks, leaks,
and wear. Replace any hoses that you suspect
are not in optimum condition.
Steering
The steering system for your Volvo Penta sterndrive is operated by a steering cable connected to the helm. Re-
stricting movement of the steering cable will limit or stop the steering system’s hydraulic assist.
NOTE! Do not interfere with or restrict steering cable movement through the last 90° of bend at the engine. Do
not use cable retainers, clamps or tie straps. Using one or all of these could restrict the cable movement near
the engine. Do not tie wiring harnesses or other control cables to the steering cable. Make sure deck combing
and bulkheads allow for steering cable movement.
If the power steering system stops working, it will feelharder 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 ata re-
duced 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. 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.