When you're putting steering back into a boat, you can go two very different directions: a used vintage steering system with character, or a brand-new modern rotary kit with a lower listed price. The Ride Glide antique/vintage system and the Teleflex Seastar SS13717 sit on opposite ends of that spectrum. Here's how to decide which one belongs on your boat.
Quick Verdict
If you want the easiest, most complete steering setup for a typical single-station boat and want to spend less, the Teleflex Seastar SS13717 is the pick. If you're restoring a classic boat and need a period-looking steering unit that's already in working order, the Ride Glide vintage system is the one to look at.
At-a-Glance Comparison
| Product | Listed Price | Condition | What Stands Out |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ride Glide Antique Vintage Boat Steering System | USD 250.00 | Used | Antique/vintage character, from a classic boat project |
| Teleflex Seastar SS13717 QC Rotary 17 FT | USD 169.78 | New | Complete rotary kit with 17 ft cable and 3-turn steering |
Where Each Product Wins
Ride Glide Antique Vintage Boat Steering System
- Wins for classic restoration projects where period-correct appearance matters.
- The seller confirms it's in good working condition, so you're getting a functional piece of boating history.
Teleflex Seastar SS13717 QC Rotary 17 FT
- Wins for straightforward installation with a modern no-tools cable connection.
- Costs less than the vintage option and comes as a full kit: helm, bezel, cable, and hardware.
Product Notes
Ride Glide Antique Vintage Boat Steering System
This is a used antique/vintage boat steering system listed at USD 250.00. The seller says it works well and was originally intended for a Feather Craft, but it measured too wide for that particular boat. That means you're buying a specific, working vintage component, not a fresh kit. For someone restoring an older boat, this Ride Glide could be the finishing touch that keeps the interior looking authentic. The main limitation is the used condition and the fact that the dimensions didn't work for one hull already. You need to look at the photos and decide if it will fit your own helm area. It's a one-time purchase with real character, but also real uncertainty.
Teleflex Seastar Boat Steering System SS13717 QC Rotary 17 FT
The Teleflex Seastar SS13717 is a new rotary steering kit listed at USD 169.78. It includes a helm with a 3/4-inch standard tapered keyway, a 90-degree bezel, a 17-foot cable, and hardware. The quick 3-turn steering and the no-tools cable connection at the helm make it a clean, modern installation. It's meant for single-station use and accepts wheels up to 16 inches in diameter. If you want a new, complete system at a lower price than the vintage option, this is the practical choice. The limitation is that it's a single-cable, single-station setup, so you can't run a second helm, and the 17-foot cable won't be long enough for every boat. Measure your cable run before you commit.
Final Choice by Use Case
For a restoration project looking for a vintage steering unit in working order, the Ride Glide is the unique find-if the dimensions work for your boat.
For a new build, a modern refit, or any boat that needs a complete steering system without the fitment guesswork, the Teleflex Seastar SS13717 is the stronger buy, and it leaves more money in your pocket.
