Sloppy steering

MinnetonkaMariah · 05-19-2011, 09:49 PM

The steering on my Z225 Davanti has always seemed sloppy to me.
There is "play" in the wheel, where I can turn from 10 to 2 with no affect.
I often feel like a first time car driver over steering all the time, and at low speeds I am constantly playing with the wheel to keep her straight.
Is this normal?
Any thoughts will be appreciated.
Thanks!
Doug

csterner · 05-19-2011, 10:02 PM

I think there is a procedure for adjusting your steering system. Check in the manual section of this forum. I think I saw it in there somewhere.

Dredd · 05-20-2011, 05:05 PM

10-2 is a lot and csterner is right. But, also note that low speed wandering is common in deep V boats. There are a few threads about it on every boating forum that I'm on.

Rick Smart · 05-20-2011, 05:57 PM

Slow speed wandering in the steering is normal. If boat is planed of and you have that much steering play you have a mechanical problem. Possible low fluid level, worn gimbel bracket, loose steering cable nut(s), worn steering helm. However be careful until the problem is fixed. I suggest not operating the boat until repairs are completed. Rick

I'm now a proud owner of a Z272 and love it.

***edward cossey*** · 05-20-2011, 07:35 PM

my mariahs 252 steering wheel has about 3inches play in it i have to correct it at slow speeds, but at faster speeds its fine i had it checked out by a mechanic and he says its normal,

all the best

ed cossey

rooperdan · 05-20-2011, 10:16 PM

Most V - hull boats do wander, even with tight steering.

Gene · 08-20-2019, 02:15 AM

I have a SX18 2006 with 3.0 /alpha one and I can steer the thing at low speeds at all .it is all over the place and seems like it doesn’t turn till the wheel is turned at least half a turn then you have to steer back the other way seems dangerous Also I see where the end of the steering cable goes into the actuator thingy it moves a couple inches before the boat starts to turn could the pump have low pressure when at lower RPMs ?