When looking at hydraulic boat steering systems, there are two components that play pivotal roles – hydraulic helm pumps and hydraulic cylinders. Both are essential for navigation, but they play distinct functions, each contributing to the precision and efficiency of steering.
Hydraulic Helm Pump
The Helm Pump acts as the control unit; mounted inside the boat, at the helm station, operated by the steering wheel. This moves hydraulic fluid to the cylinder, facilitating the turning of the boat.
Helm Pumps are available in various models with features such as tilt and autopilot compatibility and available in a range of sizes to suit your vessel.
Hydraulic Cylinders
Hydraulic Cylinders function as actuators, converting hydraulic pressure into mechanical force to move the boat’s rudder.
Mounted on the outboard, transom or near the rudder, cylinders receive hydraulic fluid from the helm, executing the movement of the rudder based on the turn direction.
Cylinders are available in various sizes and capacities to match different helm sizes boat sizes and engine power.
What else to think about?
- Multisteer Helms and Cylinders are designed to work together and also provide, compatibility with other brands or existing systems.
- Regular maintenance, including checking fluid levels and seals, is essential for both helms and cylinders to ensure optimal performance.
Multiflex Australia’s Team are available to answer any questions you may have and can be contacted via [email protected] or click here for contacts.
About the Author:Multiflex AustraliaAbout: **Author:** Multiflex Australia
**About:** Multiflex Australia is the exclusive Australian and New Zealand distributor of Multiflex mechanical control systems, steering solutions, control cables and motion control components for the marine and industrial sectors. Backed by decades of engineering and manufacturing expertise, Multiflex Australia works closely with OEMs, boat builders, dealers, distributors and industrial manufacturers to deliver reliable, high-performance control solutions supported by local technical knowledge and responsive customer service.
As the manufacturing and distribution arm of the business, and sister company to Industrial & Cable Group, Multiflex Australia combines global manufacturing capability with local industry experience to support customers across Australia and New Zealand. The team has extensive knowledge of mechanical control systems, gained through years of designing, manufacturing, specifying and supporting products in demanding real-world applications.
The articles published by Multiflex Australia are written by industry professionals who understand the practical challenges faced by engineers, equipment manufacturers and service technicians. Rather than simply describing products, they are designed to provide practical guidance, technical insights and proven solutions that help customers specify the right components, improve reliability and maximise equipment performance.
Whether supporting the marine industry with steering and engine control systems or supplying industrial control cables for mining, agriculture, construction, transport, emergency services and specialist machinery, Multiflex Australia's commitment remains the same: delivering trusted motion control solutions backed by genuine technical expertise.
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