Steering Helms

Pretech rotary steering helms and bezel kits sold on their own, for replacing a worn helm, upgrading to no feedback steering, or building a steering system with a cable length we do not stock in kit form. Three helms are available; choose the one you need from the dropdown.

Which Pretech helm do I need?

• Pretech 3000 Gen II (500015): the workhorse rotary helm. Planetary gear design, approximately 3.8 turns lock to lock, boats to about 7.5 m. Great reliability at a low price. Supplied with 90 degree bezel.
• Pretech ZTS Gen II (500016): our best cable helm. Zero Torque System blocks engine feedback so the wheel stays where you leave it, fingertip control, as close to hydraulic feel as a cable system gets. Boats to about 7.5 m, outboards to V4. Supplied with 90 degree bezel. Also available as a non-bezel helm for dual station setups.
• Pretech D2900: a direct replacement for the common 2900-type rotary helms fitted to older boats, and the cheapest way to get Pretech performance into an existing boat. Available as helm only or helm with 90 degree bezel; the D2900 90 degree bezel kit is also sold separately.

Common specifications

• Standard 3/4 inch tapered shaft, takes any standard boat steering wheel up to 400 mm
• Suits Pretech rotary steering cables (sold separately on our steering cable listing) and most standard rotary cables
• 90 degree snap-on bezel supplied with the 3000 Gen II and ZTS Gen II kits; 20 degree bezel available separately
• Corrosion resistant construction for salt water

If you are replacing a helm from another brand, ring us on 0800 273 9180 with the model number or a photo and we will confirm the match. Need the cable as well? Our rotary helm and cable kit and ZTS helm and cable kit include the helm, bezel and a cable in your chosen length.

Common questions

What is the difference between the 3000 Gen II and the ZTS? Both are rotary helms with about 3.8 turns lock to lock. The ZTS adds a zero torque clutch that stops engine feedback coming back through the wheel; the 3000 Gen II is the standard helm at a lower price.

Will a Pretech helm fit my dash? The helms use the industry standard rotary mounting pattern and a 3/4 inch tapered shaft, so on most NZ boats they bolt straight into the existing dash cut-out.

Do I need a new cable when I replace the helm? Not if your existing Pretech rotary cable is in good condition. If the cable is stiff, rusty or a different brand, replace it at the same time.

Pretech steering from a New Zealand wholesaler

Boatgear is Pretech's New Zealand distributor and has supplied the marine trade for over 50 years. Helms, bezels, cables and accessories are held in Auckland and ship nationwide, usually dispatched the next working day, or through any of our dealers.