MST MST Steering & Control Systems 2

Question 1

When installing a new mechanical steering cable, the cable must be lubricated with what type of grease?

Accepted Answer

Marine-grade grease compatible with the cable conduit material

Answer

Engine oil only

Answer

Dry PTFE spray only

Answer

No lubrication — cables must run dry

Question 2

What is the correct method for measuring the helm effort (steering force) to verify compliance with ABYC P-17?

Accepted Answer

Use a torque wrench or spring scale at the rim of the steering wheel with the engine running at rated RPM

Answer

Pull the cable at the engine and measure with a scale

Answer

Measure amperage draw on the power-assisted helm motor

Answer

No measurement is required — visual inspection is sufficient

Question 3

A boat equipped with Sea Star hydraulic steering has a cylinder that drifts off center when the helm is held steady. This symptom indicates:

Accepted Answer

An internal leak past the cylinder piston seals or a leaking helm valve

Answer

Low oil in the trim reservoir

Answer

A throttle cable misalignment

Answer

Normal operation for hydraulic steering

Question 4

What type of fluid is used in most marine hydraulic steering systems?

Accepted Answer

Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) or dedicated marine hydraulic steering fluid

Answer

Power steering fluid only

Answer

Motor oil SAE 10W-30

Answer

Brake fluid (DOT 3)

Question 5

What is the function of the helm check valves in a hydraulic steering system?

Accepted Answer

To prevent reverse flow from the cylinder back through the helm pump

Answer

To relieve excess pressure above system rated limits

Answer

To filter contaminants from the hydraulic fluid

Answer

To set the maximum lock-to-lock turns of the steering wheel

Question 6

During a throttle and shift cable adjustment on an outboard, where should the cable end pin be positioned when the shift is in neutral?

Accepted Answer

Centered in the shift lever slot with no tension on either end of the cable

Answer

Pulled to the forward stop

Answer

Pushed to the reverse stop

Answer

Position does not matter — only forward engagement matters