Maintenence QuestionHydraulic Steering

[Heelman99]

Several years ago not sure how many years ago. I had a NCSU friend change my cable to hydraulic steer system. After 2 years I had a fluid line get loose and fixed that with no problem. Today while running down the lake I felt a skipping action while making a slight turn. When returning home I checked to find fluid reservoir low and as a result I believed air in the steering lines was cause of my earlier concern today. Enough back ground now my question is using proper procedures I added Hydraulic fluid to the steering column reservoir. I assume, and we all know about assuming, hydraulic fluid is OK instead of steering fluid or does it not make a difference?

[billnorman1]

Better tell us what kind of hydraulic fluid. I use the power steering and trim/tilt marine fluid from Walmart, it's convenient and so far it has worked for a couple of years for me.

From the SeaStar website:

What kind of oil should I use in my SeaStar system?

Recommended oils for your steering system are: SeaStar Fluid, P/N HA5430 (1 quart), HA5440 (1 gallon). The following brands are acceptable: Chevron® Aviation Hydraulic Fluid A, Esso® Univis N15 or J13, Mobil® Aero HFA, Petro Canada Harmony HV115 (in Canada only), Shell® Aero Fluid #41, Texaco® HO15*and other fluids meeting MIL SPEC H-5606-G.

Automatic transmission fluid (Dexron II®) may be used in an emergency. Never use brake fluid. Any non-approved fluid may cause irreparable damage, loss of steering, and cancellation of warranty.

In cases of extreme emergency any nontoxic, nonflammable fluid may provide temporary steering.

[Heelman99]

billnorman1 the hydraulic fluid brand name is Shield. I guess the type is AW 32 Premium hydraulic fluid.

[Riccochet]

I would not use regular hydraulic fluid. It's way too heavy a weight.