8.1 Bravo III Power Steering Problems

[somefun]

496 Bravo III Power Steering Problems

I have a 496 Bravo III setup in my 2007 250 SLX. On my last outing, the power steering felt like it wasn’t working at all. I was able to verify that the fluid level is full, the drive pulley on the pump is turning and the control valve seems to be moving properly. The system worked perfectly the last time I was out a couple of months ago. Has anyone had a similar experience? Thanks!

 

[somefun]

I've broadened my search to include all power steering from all boat manufacturers and there seems to be a recurring theme: A lot of experiences like mine with most people suspecting the power steering part of the system, when, in fact, it usually turns out being the cable. I'll investigate this first and post updates.

 

[Henry Boyd]

Somefun,

Small point, but might improve future responses to your posts. The nomenclature of 8.1L for the big block engine is used when the engine is used in either a straight inboard, or vee drive application. The package using the same engine with a stern drive typically Bravo III is "496" (cubic inches). That is Mercruiser's terminology by the way.

The distinction is that while the engines are basically the same, a number of the engine components are different. Primarily related to the interface with the drive package. Such as in your case the power steering pump and cable that controls a hydraulic assist piston to swing the drive.

Folks will generally pass over posts that don't apply to their boat engine models. I know I did because rudder based steering systems as used by inboard/VHS drive 8.1 applications don't apply to our 280.

Not trying to nitpick, just making a suggestion to make your help requests more fruitful.

Henry

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

 

[somefun]

Thanks! That's good info that I did not know. And I have usually gone with the "8.1" label because I figured it was the modern way to describe the displacement. I had no idea that they weren't interchangeable. Good to know.