PSC 2.5" x 8" Double Ended Full Hydraulic Steering Cylinder
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The PSC 2.5" x 8" Double-Ended Steering Ram is built for full hydraulic steering systems that must handle large tires, high steering loads, and severe off-road abuse. Its double-ended, double-acting design provides balanced steering force and consistent response in both directions, making it well suited for rock crawlers, mud trucks, buggies, and dedicated competition vehicles.
A 2.5" cylinder bore generates substantial steering force, while the heavy-duty 1.5" rod is designed to resist bending under impact and side load. The cylinder body features a grooved, non-slip mounting surface that helps keep clamp-mounted installations secure, and the supplied -6 AN pressure fittings simplify integration with common full hydraulic steering systems.
Includes:
- (1) PSC 2.5" x 8" Double-Ended Steering Cylinder
- -6 AN Pressure Fittings
Optional Add-Ons:
- (2) Steering Ram Mount Clamps
- (4) Steering Ram Mount Clamps
- (2) Clevis Joints
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | PSC Motorsports |
| Product Type | Double-Ended Hydraulic Steering Cylinder |
| Cylinder Bore | 2.5" |
| Stroke | 8" |
| Rod Diameter | 1.5" |
| Rod-End Threads | 3/4"-16 Female Threads on Both Ends |
| Hydraulic Port Size | -6 AN |
| Cylinder Type | Double-Ended, Double-Acting |
| Mounting Surface | Grooved Non-Slip Clamp Area |
| Steering Application | Full Hydraulic Steering |
Fitment
Compatible Applications:
- Full hydraulic steering systems
- Rock crawlers and rock bouncers
- Off-road buggies
- Mud trucks
- Custom front steering axles
- Dedicated off-road and competition vehicles
- Applications running approximately 37"–43" tires
Installation Notes:
- Requires a compatible hydraulic steering orbital valve and power steering pump.
- Orbital valve displacement, pump flow, and pressure must be matched to the cylinder and desired steering speed.
- Higher-displacement orbital valves may require pump tuning or increased system flow.
- Proper ram centering, steering stop adjustment, and axle geometry are critical before final installation.
- Use hydraulic hose and fittings rated for the system's maximum operating pressure.
- Route hoses away from exhaust heat, sharp edges, moving suspension components, and driveline parts.
- The complete steering system must be thoroughly bled before operation.
- Not intended for DOT-regulated street use.
FAQ
Why use a double-ended steering ram?
A double-ended ram has equal rod area on both sides of the piston, allowing the cylinder to move the same amount of fluid and produce consistent steering speed in both directions. This balanced design is preferred for full hydraulic steering systems.
How does cylinder bore affect steering force?
A larger cylinder bore creates more piston area, which increases steering force at a given hydraulic pressure. The 2.5" bore is designed for demanding off-road systems where large tires and high steering loads require substantial hydraulic assistance.
How does the orbital valve affect steering speed?
Orbital valve displacement determines how much hydraulic fluid is moved with each steering-wheel revolution. A larger-displacement valve moves the ram faster and reduces the number of turns required from lock to lock, but it also requires sufficient pump flow to prevent slow or inconsistent steering response.
Estimated Steering Speed
| Orbital Valve | Approximate Turns Lock-to-Lock | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 120cc | Approximately 3.4 Turns | Slower, more controlled steering response |
| 160cc | Approximately 2.6 Turns | Pump tuning may be required |
| 185cc | Approximately 2.2 Turns | Fast steering response; race-oriented setup and pump tuning required |
Estimated Steering Force
| System Pressure | Approximate Turning Force |
|---|---|
| 1,650 PSI | 5,148 lbs |
| 1,800 PSI | 5,654 lbs |
Why is pump matching important?
The pump must supply enough fluid volume to keep up with the selected orbital valve while maintaining adequate pressure under load. An undersized or poorly tuned pump can cause slow steering, pump catch, heat buildup, cavitation, or inconsistent assist during rapid steering input.
Why does ram mounting matter?
The ram should be mounted rigidly, centered through its travel, and aligned with the steering arms. Incorrect geometry can reduce available steering angle, place side load on the rod, damage seals, or cause the cylinder to reach full stroke before the axle contacts its mechanical steering stops.
