Boat Steering Systems: What You Need to Know

Boats have a range of options when it comes to what kind of Power Steering system to choose. Join Tim as he walks you through the advantages of various steering systems from mechanical to hydraulic to electrical.
#kingfisherboats #stabicraft
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[@jeffk9405]

When you are using electric steering for trolling, is there a way to just turn on the power for the steering or do you need to turn the keyed switch on? I would be concerned with a power drain if you had to turn the keyed switch on since other accessories might come on too. How much power does the EPS system use? Is a 15-amp trolling motor alternator enough to keep up with the power draw for this system, a couple of chart plotters, auto pilot and 4 speaker stereo system?

[@gibbonsmotortoys]

The key does need to be on, but besides the initial draw from fuel pumps and the gauge powering up, there is really no parasitic draw from leaving it on. EPS only draws power when there is a steering demand, so in a straight line it is drawing 0 amps. The faster you turn the wheel the more power it draws. A 15A alternator might not completely offset steering, downriggers, chartplotters, etc but you would get a good run time out of it. In a pinch you can simply let your big engine idle for 30 minutes and gain back a lot of charge capacity. We've had 0 complaints with this setup, it's bulletproof.

[@jeffk9405]

@@gibbonsmotortoys Thank you Tim. As always, your channel is very helpful and has useful information. Please keep the information flowing. Thanks.

[@budazee]

Intensive comparison.. super insightful I would like to see a deep dive into the EPS system and the different aided modules it includes