Octopus Unbalanced Valve Kit for Reversing Pumps (OC17SUK03)

The Octopus OC17SUK03 is a critical plumbing component designed for boats equipped with unbalanced hydraulic steering cylinders. This valve kit allows a standard reversing autopilot pump to function correctly on systems where the volume of oil required to move the cylinder in one direction is different from the volume required to move it in the other.

Solving the "Unbalanced" Cylinder Problem

In an unbalanced steering system (common on many outboard engines and some sterndrives), the steering cylinder has a rod protruding from only one side. This means the "bore" side of the piston holds more oil than the "shaft" side. Without this valve kit, an autopilot pump would experience "locking" or cavitation because it cannot account for the unequal displacement of fluid. The OC17SUK03 acts as a compensating manifold, balancing the flow so the autopilot can steer smoothly in both directions

Key Features:

• Fluid Displacement Compensation: Specifically engineered to allow reversing pumps to work with side-mount or "unbalanced" hydraulic rams.

• Prevents Pump Stress: Eliminates the pressure spikes and vacuum pockets that occur when a pump tries to move unequal volumes of oil.

• Universal Compatibility: Designed to work with Octopus reversing pumps, as well as most standard pumps from brands like Raymarine, Garmin, and Simrad.

• Rugged Construction: Built from high-quality, corrosion-resistant marine alloys to ensure long-term reliability in the bilge or lazarette.

• Complete Manifold Kit: Includes the valve block and necessary internal components to manage the return-flow of excess hydraulic fluid.

• Essential for Outboards: A "must-have" for many single-engine outboard autopilot installations using side-mount cylinders (like certain HC5345 models).

Technical Specifications:

• Model Number: OC17SUK03

• Type: Unbalanced Cylinder Valve Kit

• Compatibility: Reversing Gear Pumps and Piston Pumps

• Material: Marine-grade Aluminum/Brass Manifold

• Port Size: Standard 1/4" NPT or ORB (depending on fittings used)

• Application: Hydraulic steering systems with unequal volume displacement

Why Choose the OC17SUK03 Valve Kit?

The OC17SUK03 is an essential "bridge" component. Without it, an autopilot installed on an unbalanced system will often steer perfectly in one direction but "stutter," "trip," or fail to move in the other. By installing this kit, you ensure that your autopilot hardware is protected from mechanical strain and that your vessel maintains a straight, reliable course regardless of cylinder type.

Installation Pro-Tip:

When installing this kit, cleanliness is paramount. Even a microscopic speck of dirt or a shard of PTFE tape entering the valve block can cause the internal check valves to stick. Always use a high-quality hydraulic sealer (like Loctite 542 or 567) instead of tape, and flush your lines thoroughly before final connection to the pump.

Manufacturer : Octopus Autopilot Drives
Manufacturer Part No : OC17SUK03
UPC : 628309134075