Page 337 - REPOWER REFERENCE GUIDE (2020)

Steering Systems

Steering Recommendations
All Mercury MerCruiser power packages are available with MerCruiser's internal power steering. This durable system provides
precise effortless steering control and is recommended for most boat applications. However on certain higher performance
applications, MerCruiser recommends the use of an external steering system where the steering cylinders connect directly to
the sterndrive unit on the outside of the boat. This arrangement gives additional support for even tighter, firmer steering control,
and is recommended for the following applications:
• High‑speed single or twin engine applications and/or boats with unusual handling characteristics. It is virtually impossible to
give a specific recommendation as to when external steering should be used, as this varies from boat design to boat
design. Generally speaking, it is recommended to use external steering on boats that run in excess of 61 knots (70 mph).
However, some boats that run 52 knots (60 mph) would benefit from the use of external steering. Because of the many
variables involved, the final decision as to whether or not external steering is required rests with the boat manufacturer and
must be made after a thorough test and evaluation of each specific boat. If there is any question whether or not external
steering is necessary, MerCruiser recommends that it be installed.
Typical External Steering System
• Any high performance sport boat powered by three or more engines
• Offshore boats or other applications where the boat and sterndrive units may come out of the water occasionally
• All III SSM and V SSM High Performance Sterndrive applications

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External steering and hydraulic helm systems can be obtained from the following aftermarket suppliers:
Latham Marine Inc.
280 S.W. 32nd Court Ft.
Lauderdale, FL 33315
(954) 462-3055
Fax (954) 462-3081
Mayfair Marine Machine
12890 N. W. 30th Avenue
Opalocka, FL 33054
(305) 681-1815
Warlock Performance Marine
392 Elizabeth Lane
Corona, CA 92880
(909) 371-8247, (909)-371-7567
Fax (909) 371-8265
www.wpmracing.com
World Class Marine
Paul Everett
N/A
N/A,
(419) 621-7770
Caiman@lrbcg.com

90-8M0149179 eng NOVEMBER 2018 © 2019 Mercury Marine Page 9B-13