Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: No feedback steering for the Outrage 18
Posted by Einspritzer on 04/12/20 - 10:43 PM
#1
I need to install one of these asap. Losing my mind trying to keep the boat straight.
Has anybody done this modification?
https://www.westmarine.com/buy/seastar-solutions--nfb-rotary-system-10-cable--P006_182_001_004
Wondering what cable length is ideal for our boats. I don't like a lot of extra slack cables!
Thank you!
Posted by JRP on 04/13/20 - 4:59 AM
#2
I thought the purpose of that mechanical Seastar “no feedback” system was to help reduce effort needed to counter torque steer? I’m not sure it would necessarily keep the boat heading from wandering without steering input. But I am not overly familiar with it, either.
What exactly is the issue you are encountering or trying to remedy?
I have a Seastar hydraulic steering unit on the 19 Outrage II (same hull as Outrage 18), and I highly recommend it for reducing steering effort. Depending what size outboard you are running, you might be fine with the less-expensive Baystar version.
Posted by Einspritzer on 04/13/20 - 2:06 PM
#4
Got it! Thanks Phil. When I stepped it out I estimates 13 feet. I like the cheaper option too.
JRP - the no feedback modification does help minimize the degree to which a boat will pull off course as a result of the torque.
Hydraulic steering would be awesome, but it's expensive and I'm not looking to replace my entire set up .. just going to modify what I have. Someday if I repower I'll put in hydro.
Posted by Einspritzer on 04/13/20 - 2:55 PM
#5
@Phil - should I get the dual cables or is the single cable sufficient?
The product pages don't offer much detail on application.
http://www.seastarsolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/ms6-nfb_4.2_rotary.pdf
Posted by Phil T on 04/13/20 - 2:59 PM
#6
Single cable is more than adequate.
While hydraulic is nice, it is added complexity, maintenance and cost. Kiss principle in practice here.
Posted by Phil T on 04/18/20 - 6:06 AM
#8
Larry - Can you point to a thread or is this from memory?
Posted by reelescape1 on 04/18/20 - 6:24 AM
#9
I just installed new no-feedback on my 1988 17' Montauk and used an 18' cable. You may want to tweak the anode fin on the outboard's lower unit also. This makes a tremendous impact on steering drift.
Posted by Finnegan on 04/18/20 - 10:06 PM
#10
Phil - My 1986 Outrage 18 came from the factory with twin 18' cables, a horrible system which I hated. When I converted to hydraulic, I used 18' Sea Star hose length. The throttle/shift cables for my twin installation are 17' and 19'.
Posted by Phil T on 04/19/20 - 8:31 AM
#11
Larry - Thanks for the clarification.
Posted by biggiefl on 04/20/20 - 10:24 AM
#12
I had the twin cable on my Hydra-sports with a 225. I was not a fan of hydraulic but in hindsight I should have went that route. I did not mind the dual cable, problem was the lower cable could not be grease and after 2 seasons was getting tight. It is also not that easy to remove as one pushes and one pulls. It is good for safety on bigger engines but unless they make a way to grease the cable(like it does in your steering tube, the grease just washes away.