Hydraulic steering systems for outboard boats have several advantages, including increased control, and reduced operator fatigue due to less torque steer, durability, and less force required to turn the wheel.
 
Our complete Pro 350HP Hydraulic Outboard Steering System Kit includes everything you need for single-engine applications with up to 700HP outboards; including Helm, Fitting, Hardware, Flexible Hydraulic Lines, Fluid, Filler Hose, and Instructions.
 
Selecting the right helm size for your boat's hydraulic steering system is crucial for optimal control and responsiveness. The helm's cubic inch (ci) per revolution rating determines the steering effort and speed:
 
The number of turns lock-to-lock for hydraulic helms depends on the displacement (cubic inches per revolution or ci/rev) of the helm pump and the volume of the steering cylinder.
 
The smaller displacement (ci/rev) results in more turns lock-to-lock with lighter steering effort, while larger displacement results in fewer turns with heavier effort. Here’s the approximate relationship for the given helm displacements:
 
Steering Helm Turns Lock-to-Lock
1.6 ci/rev (25cc): ~ 5.5 to 6.5 turns (Easiest effort, most turns)
1.8 ci/rev (30cc): ~ 4.5 to 5.5 turns (Moderate effort, moderate turns)
2.3 ci/rev (37cc): ~ 3.5 to 4.5 turns (Faster response, fewer turns)
2.7 ci/rev (44cc): ~ 2.5 to 3.5 turns (Fastest response, least turns)
 
Summary
Lower ci/rev → More turns (easier effort)
Higher ci/rev → Fewer turns (faster response, heavier effort)
 
Other Considerations for Choosing Helm Size:
Some operators favor minimal steering effort, while others prioritize rapid response.
 
Faster boats requiring precise maneuvering, course corrections, or driving it "on the pad" would benefit from a higher ci helm for quicker response.
 
Slower boats or leisurely cruising typically prefer a lower ci helm for easier steering. 
 
Please specify the hose length needed for your boat. Our price includes a pair of; 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20-foot flexible hydraulic hoses to reach from your cylinder mounted on the tilt pin to your helm.
 
How to Measure Hydraulic Steering Hoses for a Boat - Follow these simple steps to measure hydraulic hoses for your boat’s steering system. Below are two methods on how to measure distances and calculate the line length:
 
A: Measure from the boat's wheel’s center to the gunwale (or deck if the hose goes downward).
 
B: Measure from the dashboard to the transom (back of the boat).
 
C: Measure from the gunwale to the cylinder’s centerline at the outboard engine tillar.
 
Add 24 inches to the total hose length for flexibility.
 
Round the final hydraulic hose length up to the next even foot to determine your required steering hose lengths.
 
Alternative Method! Use a garden hose to trace the path from the steering wheel helm to the outboard engine, and then measure the hose length.
 
It's important to leave enough slack to avoid kinks and sharp bends in the boat hull while leaving a bit of line to move with the outboard engine. Check by moving the tiller from stop to stop in the swivel pin. This ensures smooth steering and a hassle-free installation!
 
700HP kits, 22 to 46-foot Hose Lines, Bulk bulkhead fittings/Hoses; Twin, Triple, and Quad set-ups are also available. Helms and Cylinders are available standalone.
 
For personalized guidance, contact Mike Hill at mike@buckshotracing77.com or call +1-714-697-1716 to discuss the optimal steering, helm size, and hose lengths for your specific boat and needs.