Owner`s manual

Helm Systems
2-3
Section 2
OS 255
Engine Stop Switch
Refer to the engine owner's manual for more
information on the engine stop switch.
Engine Stop Switch
2.6 Steering System
The steering system is hydraulic and made
of two main components: the helm assembly
and the hydraulic cylinder. The helm unit
acts as both a fluid reservoir and pump.
Turning of the helm, or steering wheel,
pumps the fluid through hydraulic hoses and
activates the hydraulic cylinder causing the
motors to turn. The opening and closing of
valves in the helm unit may cause a clicking
sound, this is normal. Refer to the steering
manufacturer owner’s manual for specific
information on the steering system.
Dual engine outboards use tie bar to couple
the tiller arms. Make sure the engines have
proper alignment. Properly aligned engines
provide maximum stability on straight runs
and correct tracking through corners.
Realign the engines and/or steering system
if any damage has occurred.
Tilt Helm
If your boat has a tilt helm, depress the lever
located in the base of the helm to tilt the
wheel. Make sure it locks into position.
2.7 Trim Tabs
Trim tabs are recessed into the hull on the
transom. Switches control the trim tabs. The
labeled switches control the bow-up and
bow-down movements. They also control
starboard and port up and down move-
ments. Bow-up and bow-down will control
the hull’s planing attitude, while port and
starboard up and down tabs provide control
for side-to-side hull trim.
Before leaving the dock, make sure that the
tabs are in the full “UP” position by holding
the control in the bow "UP" position for 10
seconds.
Always establish the intended heading and
cruising speed before attempting to adjust
the hull attitude with the trim tabs. After sta-
bilizing the speed and direction, move the
trim tabs to achieve a level side-to-side run-
ning attitude being careful not to over-trim.
! CAUTION
Some autopilot systems have engine
position sensors mounted to the
hydraulic steering cylinder. Autopilot
engine position sensor brackets can
hit the transom when the engines are
tilted to the full up position and cause
damage to the engine rigging, the
autopilot or the transom. If you have
an autopilot installed on your boat,
monitor the location of the engine
cables and autopilot brackets when
tilting the engines to determine the
best engine position and maximum
engine tilt for your application.
! WARNING
Do not attempt to adjust the helm
wheel position while underway.