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new Volvo I/O low speed steering shudder

Have a new boat equipped with a Volvo 5.0GXi with SX outdrive. Only about five hours on it; still breaking it in. A few times, at idle speed, the steering has pulsed/shuddered for a few seconds. It happened when we initially launched, and a few times during docking manuevers. Almost like the pump was cutting pressure on and off. The motor sounded like it was running normally. Also, I've found that this is the most "boosted" steering I've ever experienced on a boat. The steering wheel spins with ridiculous ease. Too easy, IMHO.

The boat will be heading for 20 hour service in a month or so. I'll have the dealer's service department look at it, but I wanted to see if anyone had ideas about what it might be.

rbstern
Feb 26
The steering valve is defective. Have it replaced under warranty. JR
Feb 26
JR, thanks for the diagnosis. Is there any problem with running the boat until the 20 hour service, I do I need to have this issue corrected immediately due to the potential for more damager or danger to the boat or passengers? rbstern
Feb 26
Any malfunction of a boost system for the steering is serious. It may just continue to pulse, or it may drive the steering to lock with no warning. You choose. Don't let the dealer BS you either. Make them fix it JR

rbstern wrote:

JR
Feb 27
Ok. Thank you! rbstern
Feb 27
The fluid does bypass when not being called on to push in one direction or another so I'd venture to guess it could just be tight. All my boat ps experiences are that they turn pretty effortlessly. Did you not have ps on your prior boat? jamesgangnc
Feb 26
I do have an 200hp outboard boat with hydraulic steering. There is more resistance.

It's been about nine years since I had an I/O with power steering, although I have driven others as recently as last September. Last one I drove had exactly the same motor and outdrive as this new boat. I don't recall it feeling this "over-boosted."

rbstern
Feb 26
   

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