Mercruiser steering

[Broadhorizons]

The boat I'm looking at has a Mercruiser I/O with the power assisted (run off the motor) steering. I'm told that without the main motor running the steering would act like a normal car without the motor on. Would the harder steering be too hard for an AP (probably would get Simrad rotary model) to steer the boat if I run a trolling motor with the tiebar for steering? Is there a conversion available to change the engine operated assist to electric operated assist without replacing the whole steering system? If I have to run the big motor to be able to use the AP or steer more comfortably while trolling, then it wouldn't make much sense to have a trolling motor. Thanks in advance for your help.

[GAMBLER]

I installed the Simrad with Jax in his boat. All you have to replace is the steering cable. It is a really easy job. Make sure you get the correct length cable. With the motor off, it will steer like a car without power steering.

[L&M]

That is only if it has a rack & pinion type helm. If it's rotary there is no need to change the cable.

[Broadhorizons]

What I'm concerned about is if the AP will have enough power to operate the steering without the power assist? Will this lead to early failure of the AP from being overworked?

[L&M]

It shouldn't be a problem. Ck your pm's.

[jekyll]

Chris:

I don't recall from the survey you sent me if this boat comes with the kicker but, I think you are adding one. What about adding an A/P to the kicker only? A TR1 on the kicker will satisfy your tolling needs.

[dcso]

i may be way off base but i had a project boat that had power steering ( merc 260) the drive steered just fine without the motor running, i may be wrong but i believe the only time i makes a difference is when your underpower with the main engine.

ted