VEVOR 90HP Hydraulic Outboard Steering Kit: features, specs and fit

The VEVOR 90HP Hydraulic Steering Kit is a set of parts for steering an outboard-powered boat with hydraulics instead of a mechanical cable. It includes a helm pump, a cylinder and hoses, and VEVOR rates it for boats up to 90 horsepower. This page explains what each part does and what to confirm before fitting one.

How hydraulic steering works

Turning the wheel at the helm drives a small pump. The pump pushes fluid through hoses to a cylinder at the engine, and the cylinder moves the outboard from side to side. Because the system is sealed and fluid is hard to compress, the wheel typically feels smoother and lighter than a cable system, and the helm can be placed some distance from the engine. Many boaters move from cable to hydraulic steering when they fit a larger engine, because the torque from a bigger motor makes cable steering heavy.

The kit's main parts

The listing names the helm pump, the cylinder and the hoses, and describes the whole as a marine steering system kit. VEVOR calls the pump compact inside and neat outside, which can help when space behind the dash is tight.

Built-in two-way lock

VEVOR says the cylinder has a built-in two-way locking valve. When you let go of the wheel, the valve holds the cylinder where it is, so the engine isn't pushed around by waves or propeller torque. The listing says this removes rebound torque during turning, which is the tendency of the wheel to spin back or the motor to drift when released.

Nylon hose and quick-fit fittings

The hoses are high-strength nylon. They have quick-fit 1/4-inch pipe fittings, and VEVOR says these make installation easy and can be re-used several times. Hose length, routing and bleeding the air out of the system are important steps, so follow the manual or a marine technician's advice.

Aluminium alloy casing

The casing is a high-strength aluminium alloy. VEVOR says it resists wear and corrosion and helps prevent damage from seawater. Aluminium is common in marine hardware, but all metal parts in salt water benefit from rinsing with fresh water and regular inspection.

Replaceable shaft seal

The pump has a shaft seal that can be replaced. Seals are wear parts, and being able to change one without replacing the pump is a practical benefit if the pump ever starts to weep fluid.

Size and weight

The listed package size is 25.2 x 18.9 x 7.1 inches (about 64 x 48 x 18 cm), and the weight is 18.6 lb (about 8.4 kg).

Who it suits

It is meant for owners of small and mid-size outboard boats rated up to 90 HP who want to replace or add a steering system. Typical examples are small runabouts, aluminium fishing boats and pontoon boats, although it's important to check each boat's own requirements.

What to check before you buy

• Engine power: the kit is for engines up to 90 HP. Don't use it on a more powerful outboard.
• Engine mount: make sure the cylinder suits your outboard's tilt tube and mounting.
• Hose length: measure the route from helm to engine and compare it with the hose length supplied.
• Dash space: check the pump's size and the mounting hole requirements behind your steering wheel.
• Fluid: the listing doesn't say which hydraulic fluid to use, so check the manual.
• Installation: steering is a critical system. If you're not experienced, have a qualified marine technician fit and test it, and follow local regulations.
• Upkeep: inspect hoses, fittings and seals regularly and top up the fluid as the manual describes.

The short version

• A hydraulic outboard steering kit with helm pump, cylinder and nylon hoses.
• Rated for boats up to 90 HP.
• Built-in two-way lock valve; aluminium alloy casing.
• Quick-fit 1/4-inch hose fittings and a replaceable shaft seal.
• Weighs 18.6 lb; check engine and mount fit before buying.

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