Description
SeaStar HK6400-4 Hydraulic Steering Kit
The Dometic HK64004 SeaStar Hydraulic Steering Kit is the front mount hydraulic steering kit for single non power assisted outboards up to about 300 HP on most fishing, bay, and family boats. It pairs the proven SeaStar front mount helm and the popular HC5345-3 front mount outboard cylinder for smooth, reliable steering on typical outboard applications. It is a great choice for boats that cruise and run at moderate speeds. For high performance bass boats or hulls regularly running above about 60 mph, SeaStar PRO is usually recommended instead.
The updated -4 kit, which is the direct replacement for the HK6400A-3 kits include the new -4 helms redesigned with new valve technology, more durable check valves and a revamped design.

Key Benefits of the HK6400-4 Kit
- Standard SeaStar system for single non power assisted outboards up to approximately 300 HP when installed to SeaStar guidelines.
- Smooth, consistent steering feel and reduced torque steer compared to mechanical cable systems.
- Well suited to everyday cruising, fishing, and family use on most outboard powered boats.
- Balanced front mount cylinder design for even wheel effort port and starboard.
- SeaStar 1.7 cu in helm provides a comfortable number of turns lock to lock with the HC5345-3 cylinder.
- Meets applicable ABYC and NMMA steering standards when installed per SeaStar instructions.
What Is Included in the HK6400-4 Kit
| Component | Part No. | Details |
|---|---|---|
| SeaStar front mount helm pump, 1.7 cu in | HH5271-4 | Standard SeaStar front mount helm for 1000 PSI systems, approximately 4.8 turns lock to lock with the HC5345-3 cylinder, 3 inch dash cut out, 3/4 inch tapered steering shaft, ORB style ports with repositionable fittings. |
| SeaStar front mount outboard cylinder | HC5345-3 | Balanced SeaStar front mount cylinder for many single outboard engines, 8.0 inch stroke, front mount style, with adjustable support bracket and ORB hose fittings. |
| SeaStar hydraulic steering fluid | HA5430H | Two quarts of SeaStar hydraulic steering fluid for filling and bleeding the system. |
| Fill and bleed kit | HA5438 | Bottle adapter and hardware to fill and bleed the helm and cylinder, plus installation instructions. |
| SeaStar Hose | HO51XX / HO59XX | At an additional cost, you can add hose above. We offer odd length hoses and the option to upgrade the hose fittings to stainless steel. Note, the HO51XX part numbers are being discontinued, replaced with HO59XX, the same exact part only with new packaging. |
Important: This kit ships without steering hoses. SeaStar hoses must be ordered separately to complete the installation.
Recommended Applications and Limits
| Configuration | Engine power | Typical boat type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single outboard | Up to 300 HP (non power assisted) | Bay boats, center consoles, runabouts, small pilot house and fishing boats | Primary application for SeaStar standard front mount systems. Typical speeds up to about 55 to 60 mph. |
| Twin outboards | Within SeaStar limits when approved by the selection guide | Smaller offshore center consoles and similar hulls | May require tie bar kits, extra hardware, and careful sizing. Contact us if you are planning a twin engine setup. |
| Dual station | Within limits above | Upper and lower helm installations on moderate speed boats | A second SeaStar helm, hoses, and fittings can be added for dual station use. |
Not intended for surfacing propeller applications, race boats, or high performance bass boats that regularly exceed about 60 mph. For those applications, SeaStar PRO is usually the correct choice.
Will This Cylinder Work on My Boat?
| Notes | Link |
|---|---|
| SeaStar Front Mount Cylinder Application Guide | LINK (WEB) |
| Dometic SeaStar Hydraulic Parts Lookup | LINK (WEB) |
| SeaStar Hydraulic Steering Selection Guide | LINK (PDF) |
| Tech Support Page (First Link) | LINK (WEB) |



Downloads and Resources
| Notes | Link |
|---|---|
| SeaStar Front Mount Outboard Cylinder Installation Manual | LINK [PDF] |
| Helm Pump Installation Manual | LINK [PDF] |
| SeaStar Front Mount Cylinder Fill and Bleeding Instructions | LINK [PDF] |
| Dometic SeaStar Warranty Sheet | LINK [PDF] |
| Dometic Seastar Hydraulic Build Guide | LINK [PDF] |
Installation Tips
- Confirm that your engine is listed for the HC5345-3 cylinder in the current SeaStar application guide.
- Mount the HH5271-4 helm on a flat, reinforced dash with the correct 3 inch hole and a secure backing plate if needed.
- Route hoses to avoid tight bends, pinch points, chafe, and heat sources. Keep bend radii as large as practical.
- Use only SeaStar approved fittings and hoses rated for SeaStar outboard systems.
- Bleed the system carefully until there is no visible aeration and the wheel feels solid from lock to lock.
- Verify full engine movement port to starboard, correct centering, and that there is no interference at the cylinder or tiller arm.
Maintenance Guidelines
- Check fluid level at the helm periodically and top up with SeaStar hydraulic steering fluid only.
- Inspect the cylinder shaft, seals, and hose fittings for signs of seepage at regular service intervals.
- Rinse the cylinder and fittings with fresh water after salt water use when possible.
- Do not use automotive power steering fluid or ATF. Always use SeaStar specified steering fluid.
- If the wheel develops free play, noise, or a spongy feel, schedule a steering inspection before your next trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this kit include hoses?
No. The HK6400-4 kit includes the helm, front mount cylinder, fluid, and bleed kit. SeaStar hoses are sold separately so you can match your exact rigging length and style.
What is the difference between HK6400-4 and HK7500-4?
HK6400-4 is the standard SeaStar kit for typical outboard boats up to about 300 HP and moderate speeds. HK7500-4 is the SeaStar PRO kit with higher pressure components and a PRO cylinder for high performance hulls and higher speeds.
Can I upgrade from HK6400-4 to SeaStar PRO later?
Yes. Many customers start with a standard SeaStar system and later upgrade to SeaStar PRO components if they increase engine power or speed. Contact us with your current part numbers and we can help you plan the upgrade path.
Can I add a second station?
Yes. You can add a second SeaStar helm, additional hoses, and fittings for a dual station installation, as long as the overall system stays within SeaStar guidelines.
Questions?
- Tech Support: Tech Support Page
- Check Stock: Stock Inquiry Page
- How to Measure Seastar Hose: Guide
- Learn More About Seatech: About Us Page
- No Sales Tax on Purchases Outside of California
- Buy Now Pay Later with Affirm or PayPal Pay Later
- FREE FedEx Priority Overnight Shipping to the Lower 48 States, USPS Priority Mail to AK, HI, USVI & Puerto Rico
- Formerly Teleflex, Seastar is now Dometic Marine
- Seatech Marine Products, Inc. is an authorized dealer, hose manufacturer, and service center for Dometic Marine