Electric Outboard
Steering System
SYSTEM COMPARISON
Hydraulic Steering vs. Direct-Drive Electric
Hydraulic steering transmits force through pressurised fluid. A pump builds pressure, fluid travels through lines to a cylinder, and the cylinder moves the outboard. Each component in that chain introduces delay and potential failure points. Direct-drive electric steering removes the fluid circuit entirely. A sensor reads wheel input. The controller processes the signal. The actuator responds.
- Pressurized fluid transmits steering force through hoses and a cylinder
- Response time: 0.5–1.0 seconds under typical conditions
- Requires fluid checks, bleeding, and line inspection
- Pump, reservoir, cylinder, and hose connections introduce multiple mechanical and seal failure points
- Actuator responds directly to electronic signal — no fluid circuit
- Response time: ≤ 0.2 seconds
- No hydraulic fluid, no hoses, no pump
- Manual steering attachment in the event of power loss.
Reduced system complexity results in lower response latency and fewer service variables.
Redundancy by design.
The system is designed around the assumption that individual components can fail. Redundant circuits, a mechanical bypass, and sealed enclosures ensure that no single electrical or physical failure results in loss of steering. Identified and mitigated at the system architecture level.
Manual Bypass
A direct manual connection between the helm and the outboard is accessible at all times. Engaging the bypass decouples the actuator and restores direct manual steering. Tools supplied. No power required.
IP67 Sealed Enclosures
All primary control components are designed to IP67. Complete protection against dust and submersion in up to one metre of water. The rating applies under saltwater, spray, and sustained vibration conditions.
Mitigation measures against potential failure
Shielded cables and EMC-filter, abrasion resistant polyether TPU jacket on all exposed cables, overcurrent protection, a robust design to prevent spindle jam and misalignment, IP67 ratings on all components plus aluminium surfaces are anodised to increase corrosion resistance are just some of the steps take to mitigate failure.
Is it right for your boat?
Jefa Steering ES150 is engineered for outboard-powered vessels seeking precise, reliable control.
Perfect for
Not designed for
INSTALLATION & INTEGRATION
Designed to retrofit and for new build.
The system is engineered as a direct replacement for hydraulic steering cylinders in standard outboard configurations. No structural modification to the hull or transom is required. The actuator mounts to existing bracket points, the control box connects to the 12V DC supply, and the helm sensor attaches to the steering wheel hub.
Retrofit Design
The actuator is dimensioned to replace a standard hydraulic cylinder without modification to transom brackets or tiller arm geometry. Existing mounting hardware is compatible in most configurations. Hydraulic lines, pump, and reservoir are removed — no new hull penetrations required.
Electrical Integration
The connection box operates on a standard 12V DC marine electrical system. Connection requires a fused supply lead, a ground, and the signal cable from the helm sensor. No dedicated circuit controller or CANbus integration is required.
Mechanical Mounting
The actuator attaches to the outboard tiller arm. Alignment is set mechanically at installation. The helm sensor mounts to the steering wheel hub shaft without modification to the wheel or hub.
Service & Access
Routine service is limited to a visual inspection of the actuator, wiring harness, and sensor connection. There are no fluid intervals, no bleeding procedures, and no consumables. All connection points are accessible without removing the outboard or console panels.
Installation is designed to be completed by a qualified marine technician in a standard working day.
Expert installation advised — self-install optional.
Whilst the system is designed for easy installation with basic mechanical skills we do recommend professional installation. A detailed owner’s manual is included with every purchase.
What's included
Built to perform
Trusted since 2001
Since 2001, Jefa Steering A/S has been the trusted name in marine steering systems. Our electric steering represents the next evolution. Built on decades of experience, refined through thousands of hours of real-world testing.
Common questions
How does electric steering compare to hydraulic?
Can I install this myself?
Is this compatible with my boat?
What does the warranty cover?
What maintenance is required?
READY TO UPGRADE
Ready to upgrade from hydraulic?
Direct-drive precision. Built in Denmark.
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