Hydraulic Steering for 280hp +

[riverlivin]

Hey everybody, I'm looking to replace my cable steering with hydraulic. Most everything I have found is for 150hp I will have a Merc 280 massaged for 300+ and wondered what you all thought was the best solution?

[Coryc]

If you wanna get the best steering out there go with sidearm steering like Latham or Marine Machine or Imco. That's the best and toughest design but more expensive then the general route. Otherwise a good seastar steering system will do ya just fine!

[JPEROG]

There are a lot of used 280 plates out there-as recommended above, go with a side ram.

Joe

[rgsauger]

I thought the Sea star Pro was rated for 300 HP or so

[mjw930]

Seastar Pro or UFlex Silver Steer should work fine in your application. Both are rated for 300+ HP but do warn for speeds over 75 (or something like that). Lots of 90+ mph bass boats running them with no issues.

Of course side ram is the strongest but it's $1200 - $1600 just for the ram and plate. Add helm and hoses and you are well over $2K.

[WillySteve]

I've ran a seastar pro for 5 years with no issues in my 100mph bass boat!

[Coryc]

You can buy a ram, tilt pin, and wing plate for $1,000-$1,200. And you can find a used capilano helm for $500. Just add hoses and fluid and you're ready to. I bet you could do it for $2,000.