First thing to check is the fluid level.
CHECKING TELEFLEX SEASTAR FLUID LEVEL:
Per the Teleflex/Sea Star manual, if the helm is mounted horizontal (+/- 20 degrees) the fluid should be at the bottom of the threads in that fill port. If mounted vertical (+/- 20 degrees) the fluid should be 1/2" below the bottom thread.
It is not uncommon to have to top off a helm unit every once in a while, but some units won't need it at all during the season. I find units left "hard over w/ the OB trimmed up" may weep a bit out of the steering arm seals, which might exit/drip overboard, so you may never notice it.
Try this, bring fluid up to proper level referred to, then turn wheel hard over one way. With the fill port cap open, keep turning the wheel hard, then release the wheel, and repeat ... while watching the fluid level. If it "drops" when you apply turning force there is air in the system which you could bleed out. Repeat this test by turning the wheel hard over the other way. Tip: always turn the helm slowly if that vent cap is open .
Note: That said, here's what I do. As long as the OB turns when I move the wheel even a tiny little bit, like less than an inch or so, I don't worry if the fluid drops a touch when turned hard over. Keep an eye on that level though !
Call 604-270-6899 for Technical Support on Seastar steering units:
If that doesn't do it ... you may have a sticky 'check valve' which has a source of pain to Teleflex users over the past few years, must be a Quality Control issue.
