Hydraulic system on a yacht. What is worth knowing?

Owners and regular users of yachts probably have at least a basic understanding of how the hydraulic system works in such a machine. For those interested in the topic, we want to explain in this post how hydraulic steering functions on boats. What is the actual task of the steering system? Primarily, it ensures safe sailing and maintaining full control over the yacht, as well as comfortable handling in any situation.

Steering systems on a yacht

On yachts, we can distinguish between mechanical steering and hydraulic steering. The mechanical steering system includes cables connecting the steering wheel to the engine, which, depending on how we move the steering wheel, set the engine in motion. This type of steering system is used, among others, in the case of small and lightweight engines, on boats that generally do not reach high speeds. If we were dealing with significant water resistance, steering a boat with such a system would not be easy. On the other hand, hydraulic steering on a yacht includes a system consisting of a steering wheel with a pump connected via hydraulic lines to the engine, specifically to the cylinders located near it: right and left. When we start turning the steering wheel on the boat, due to the pump's action, the pressure in one of the aforementioned cylinders increases, while in the other it decreases. Smooth and safe handling of the boat with such a steering system is very easy even for an inexperienced user.

Essential elements of boat hydraulics

The hydraulic system on a boat consists of elements such as a gearbox, actuator, hydraulic line, oil, as well as fittings for the hydraulic gearbox, spacer rings, hydraulic tees. When purchasing hydraulic spare parts, it is worth paying attention to the following technical parameters: weight and maximum pressure (gearbox) or maximum engine power and arm operating range (actuator). More information about the individual elements of yacht equipment and their operation can be obtained from boat and equipment distributors.