SeaStar Hydraulic Steering: Which One?

[croSSed]

My boat is the one in my profile pic. It's a 70mph+ boat. Right now - and since 2008 - I'm running an old SeaStar hydraulic steering system. The helm seems to work fine, there are no kinks or leaks in the hoses, but the cylinder I think is worn out. It has play side to side, and bleeding the system doesn't take care of this play. There is no indication of leaking or other issues. The helm rarely needs to be topped off, and I haven't seen any evidence of fluid leakage. The cylinder is the HC5345, the old style with the slide. I'd like to just replace the cylinder with a new-style one, but then this is also a possibility:
https://www.westmarine.com/buy/seast...Search-Results
That's a lot of money for something that may or may not perform better. My rig has solid mounts and up until now has been reasonably easy to control chine walk at high speeds. Advice? Thanks.

[LakeFever]

I’m pretty sure you can rebuild those I know I have seen the seals for sale somewhere. I have the seastar pro, works good for me. It’s noticeably easier to steer than a bay star I tried. More hydraulic power I’m guessing is why

[mjw930]

Give the folks at Boat Steer http://boatsteer.com/ a call. They can rebuild any Seastar component and can give you excellent advice on options.

[croSSed]

I’m pretty sure you can rebuild those I know I have seen the seals for sale somewhere. I have the seastar pro, works good for me. It’s noticeably easier to steer than a bay star I tried. More hydraulic power I’m guessing is why

I know these can be rebuilt, but I'd rather get the new, updated version of the cylinder.

[LakeFever]

My thoughts are steering should be overkill so get the best parts you can. Far as I know the seastar pro cylinder is the biggest they make so I’d get that. I’d also be sure the helm supplies enough volume for it by making a call to seastar asking about compatibility.

[mjw930]

My thoughts are steering should be overkill so get the best parts you can. Far as I know the seastar pro cylinder is the biggest they make so I’d get that. I’d also be sure the helm supplies enough volume for it by making a call to seastar asking about compatibility.

Actually, I believe their Tournament series is the beefiest system they make. I have that on the Talon and it’s been very reliable.

[LakeFever]

Actually, I believe their Tournament series is the beefiest system they make. I have that on the Talon and it’s been very reliable.

Did not know, even better! When it comes to things like this that not only affect performance but have major roles in safety? There is no place for cheeping out. I always get the best brakes and tires for my truck/cars even if they are old junkers. An old junker with good brakes and new top brand tires is still a very safe and good driving vehicle. Same applies with boats imo