Baystar and Seastar hydraulic steering systems

[two stroke mick]

What is the differance between seastar and baystar steering systems?
TSM

[HUMBER P4VWL]

http://www.seatechmarineproducts.com...on%20Guide.pdf

bay star up to 150hp, seastar up to 600hp including multiple engine outfits.

[two stroke mick]

Thanks

[Leaderscharter]

Originally Posted by two stroke mick

What is the differance between seastar and baystar steering systems?
TSM

I just changed out a seastar helm unit due to a leaking shaft seal, would do you a deal on the unit apparently seal replacement is a minor job. I left it with Tom in Clew Bay Boats if you want to check it out.

[two stroke mick]

Hi leadner

Are you Aaron D by any chance? I am currently considring the option of installing a Hydraulic system. I am waiting for the old one to give in but I am considering my options. Its grand to have another member on ribnet that is not several hunderd miles away. I take it you launch from Ross Money?

TSM

[jyasaki]

Originally Posted by Leaderscharter

I just changed out a seastar helm unit due to a leaking shaft seal, would do you a deal on the unit apparently seal replacement is a minor job. I left it with Tom in Clew Bay Boats if you want to check it out.

You changed a $500 helm pump because of a leaking $18 (retail) seal?

(Note: if you take the old seal to a hydraulic shop, they can probably fix you up with a replacement seal for a couple of bucks. I plan on doing this with the steering ram end caps when I get a chance.)

As an FYI, the seal is accessed by removing the steering wheel, and a plastic cover that sits around the shaft. Old seal is then accessible, use a pick to get it out, put the new one in, tamp it down a bit, and replace cover and wheel. Done.

jky

[Downhilldai]

Originally Posted by jyasaki

...use a pick to get it out

I know these guys are Irish, but there's no need to take the piss.

[two stroke mick]

Hi Dow

A sledge would be quicker

TSM

[Leaderscharter]

Originally Posted by jyasaki

You changed a $500 helm pump because of a leaking $18 (retail) seal?

(Note: if you take the old seal to a hydraulic shop, they can probably fix you up with a replacement seal for a couple of bucks. I plan on doing this with the steering ram end caps when I get a chance.)

As an FYI, the seal is accessed by removing the steering wheel, and a plastic cover that sits around the shaft. Old seal is then accessible, use a pick to get it out, put the new one in, tamp it down a bit, and replace cover and wheel. Done.

jky

Unfortunately I did not have the luxury of time to get the seal kit delivered over due to the fact the boat was on a contract. But thanks for reminding me of that!
Things never seem to break at convenient times!

[jyasaki]

Wasn't really trying to rub it in; was just rather surprised.

I think I would have tried something like removing the seal from the new helm and installing it in the old, then returning the new one once the seal arrived and was replaced. Either that or simply stuff a largish O-ring into the groove.

But, hey; whatever works. Sure hope there's someone like you around if I ever need to replace my helm...


jky

[Zubenelgenubi]

Does anyone know where in the UK is the cheapest to source a Baystar Hydraulic Steering kit?

[willk]

Originally Posted by Zubenelgenubi

Does anyone know where in the UK is the cheapest to source a Baystar Hydraulic Steering kit?

Donegaldan got a good deal on a SeaStar recently from those top lads at www.ribstuff.com. They might be worth a try.

I find them very easy to deal with.

Did I read somewhere that Baystars have more turns (lock to lock) than Seastars?

[two stroke mick]

when the VATis added to the "ribstuff" price there is very littlr in the differance

[donegaldan]

To be fair to two stroke mick, he is right, price wise there may not have been much in it.

But.... big thanks to the guys at ribstuff - they really knew their stuff, and for a cold call
from a customer, they spent their fair share of time with me with the pro's and con's of me
spending mucho squids installing a hydraulic system onto a Searider 4.0.

You may be able to get it at a comparable price elsewhere.
But the service I got from them will bring me back again, and would be happy to recommend them to anyone going to or thinking about what I just done !

Donegaldan

[pathalla]

I believe there are a couple of these products on market. I seem to remember one specifically for marine applications but can't currently locate it online. Haven't tried it but worth a shot in a pinch. Personally I am not too impressed with the seals Seastar uses in its rams as one of mine leaks off and on. Not too good considering the steering setup is only a few years old and used in fresh water. Link to the Seal lube website:
http://newtintl.homestead.com/seallube.html

[limeydal]

Originally Posted by jyasaki

You changed a $500 helm pump because of a leaking $18 (retail) seal?

(Note: if you take the old seal to a hydraulic shop, they can probably fix you up with a replacement seal for a couple of bucks. I plan on doing this with the steering ram end caps when I get a chance.)

As an FYI, the seal is accessed by removing the steering wheel, and a plastic cover that sits around the shaft. Old seal is then accessible, use a pick to get it out, put the new one in, tamp it down a bit, and replace cover and wheel. Done.

jky

JKY
funny you should comment on the thread.
I just started loosing fluid from my Baystar system.
Been lazy and just topping up, but will follow your lead and see if it's as straight forward as you say
cheers Dal

[Burtox]

Oooops I'm also regularly topping up my helm that currently covering my VHF in steering fluid. I think it's time for a strip down. Thank you for the link you have inspired me