Installation instructions for Kobelt Steering Cylinders

It is important that the steering cylinder chosen for a specific application are the right diameter and stroke suitable for the installation.

All of the Kobelt Steering Cylinders are equipped with either ball rod end fitting or spherical bearings.

These bearings and rod ends have allowance for a given amount of misalignment and rotation. It is of the utmost importance that the cylinders are installed without because any binding in the cylinder mechanism during operation.

The bolts used for mounting the cylinder must be of Grade 5 or better. The brackets use for fastening the cylinder must be able to withstand the maximum torque of the cylinder and must have a solid plain face without any deflection during operation.

The Cylinders must be installed so that in the mid-stroke position the ship’s rudder is in mid-position also. It is important that the tiller arm is installed at right angles to the pivoting point of the cylinder. If this is not followed, unequal rudder travel will result.

When installing a twin or multi-cylinder steering system, it is of extreme importance that the strokes of all cylinders are matched. If, for example, one cylinder has reached the end of its stroke and the second cylinder has not completed its stoke, it will case a tremendous amount of unnecessary stress on the rudder stock and the steering system as a whole. It is extremely important that the rod ends at the end of the cylinder and stop nuts are adjusted to balance all cylinder movements.

Steering cylinders connected to tiller arms move through an arc when in operation. It is necessary to have hoses connected to the steering cylinders for the hydraulic fluid. Solid piping will crack and fail very rapidly because of the movement of the cylinders. When selecting the hose, it is impotent to have the proper operating range for these hoses to match the hydraulic system pressure.

On ships where there are two rudders interconnected with a tie bar, the tie bar must also be constructed to take 60% of the total rudder torque. It is highly recommended to leave sufficient room in the steering gear compartment to allow for service. The Kobelt Steering cylinders are also equipped with grease fittings which should be greased at regular intervals (depending on the duty cycle.) Bolts, nuts and cotter keys should be checked regularly.

Should anyone enter the steering gear compartment when hydraulic steering system is in operation, it is of extreme importance to stay clear of all moving parts. A human limb could easily be lost if due care and attention is not taken.