Carver Owners Forum

I am trying to determine which type of steering system the boat has. Does anyone have the specs for the 1999 356 Aft Cabin for Steering? Is it hydraulic or mechanical? Thanks.

I don't know that specific model, but I'd bet 99% it's hydraulic.

awesome. Thank you sir!

Ya hydraulic for sure unless a previous owner changed something, either taking a step back to mechanical or upgrading to a fly-by-wire system. Your helm (part the steering wheel is mounted to) is the pump, and there is a steering cylinder aft at the transom that is connected to the rudders.

It may be a Hynautic system. Look around in the engine room for a reservoir box, and monitor hydraulic fluid level there. If it gets too low, you will blow the seals in the steering pump. If there is a fill cap on the pump ( steering wheel ) location, then it is a SeaStar. Easier to keep full, and monitor. If you need to top off, make sure you use hydraulic steering fluid. Not the same fluid as trim tab/power steering fluid. The fluid containers are labeled in a really confusing way. Good luck. er

Seastar hydraulic