Buy boat steering for precise control
A boat steering system is the set of components that lets you change direction on a motorboat or inflatable from a helm station away from the engine. The system consists of at minimum a steering box, a steering cable and a steering wheel; on more powerful engines a hydraulic circuit replaces the mechanical cable. The range includes cable steering systems M58 and M66 from HIBO and Ultraflex, hydraulic systems from Lecomble & Schmitt, steering wheels from EvoNautic, and accessories such as throttle/shift cables and tiller arms for all common engine outputs.
Which steering type suits your boat and engine?
| Steering type | Application | Engine hp limit | Installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical cable M58 | Inflatable, tender, open motorboat | Up to 55 hp | Simple, DIY |
| Mechanical cable M66 stainless | Sportsboat, larger tender | 55-90 hp | Simple, heavier cable routing |
| Hydraulic (LS80PRO/125PRO/175PRO) | Sportsboat, RIB, tender | 70 hp and above | Advanced, fill hydraulic line |
| Tiller arm | Small inflatable, tender | All outputs, tiller-steered | Direct mount on engine |
The rule of thumb: choose mechanical M58 for engines up to 55 hp on an inflatable or open tender. Choose M66 stainless at 55-90 hp. Above 70 hp on a RIB or sportsboat, hydraulic is the standard choice for low steering effort and virtually zero feedback from the engine.
Steering wheels, throttle cables and accessories
A cable steering system needs a steering wheel that fits the hub of the steering box. EvoNautic and HIBO offer steering wheels in 28 to 40 cm diameter in black, carbon look, wood and chrome finishes. A hub adapter from EvoNautic resolves sizing issues when the wheel and steering box have different hub diameters. In addition to the steering cable, a fixed helm station also needs a throttle/shift cable. For broader boat supplies check the boat accessories collection, or for inflatables the inflatable boat collection.
Hydraulic steering: how it works and maintenance
A hydraulic steering system operates via a closed oil circuit. The steering wheel drives a hydraulic pump that sends oil to a cylinder on the engine, turning it without any feedback from the propeller. Lecomble & Schmitt LS systems are supplied with 10 metres of hydraulic hose and come in three power classes (LS80PRO for engines up to 115 hp, LS125PRO up to 150 hp, LS175PRO up to 350 hp). Annual inspection of the oil level and hose connections is sufficient maintenance under normal use.
Frequently asked questions about boat steering
When should I choose hydraulic instead of mechanical boat steering?
Hydraulic steering is the standard once engine output consistently exceeds 70 hp and the boat is used at higher speeds or for longer trips. With mechanical cable steering, engine feedback on the steering cable increases as engine power rises: you feel resistance and vibrations in the steering wheel, which becomes tiring during extended use. Hydraulic systems eliminate this entirely because there is no direct mechanical connection between the engine and the steering wheel. Hydraulic systems also provide more precise steering feel at high speeds, which improves both safety and comfort.
Which steering cable fits my motorboat?
Cable choice depends on the engine output and the type of steering box. M58 is the standard for engines up to 55 hp and fits steering boxes with an M58 cable head. M66 stainless is the heavier variant for engines from 55 to 90 hp with a sturdier cable construction that gives less feedback. The two types are not interchangeable. In addition to the type, the length of the cable determines fit: measure the distance from the steering box to the engine along the route the cable follows, including bends, and add 20 centimetres.
How do I install a new steering cable?
First disconnect the old cable from the steering pin of the engine and from the steering box. Route the new cable along the same path through the boat; use clamps to fix it and prevent kinks. Connect the cable head to the steering pin and adjust the tension so the engine sits straight when the steering wheel is straight and can turn fully left and right without the cable going taut. Grease the cable where it passes through the transom for long service life. Always do a test run at low speed after installation to verify the adjustment.
How do I maintain my boat's steering system?
Flush the steering cable and steering box with fresh water after each sailing season to remove salt and sand particles that cut into the inner lining of the cable. Lubricate the cable annually with a marine cable grease or WD-40 Specialist to prevent corrosion. Check whether the cable head at the engine and the connection at the steering box are not rusting or showing play; replace the cable as soon as wear becomes visible. On a hydraulic system, check the oil level in the reservoir and inspect all hose connections for small leaks. Use only the hydraulic fluid specified by the manufacturer; mixing with other fluid types damages the pump components.
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