Steering fluids ............

[Hannibal]

I think I've discovered the reasoning behind my earlier reported steering issues (loss of steering intermintently, etc). After reading some posts, I hopped on the boat, hit the helm and twisted off the cap on my seastar steering wheel to check levels (never done this before and should've - it's a newly purchased boat). As I removed it - I heard a bit of air moving (slight hiss) and noticed that there was no fluid to be seen.

Not saying this is the ROOT CAUSE of my issues but it certainly is contributing to them. Assuming I don't have any other issues to contend with at this point, my intent is to add steering fluid. That should help things immensly ..... initially.

As time allows, I will have to look and see if there is a root cause for fluid loss (seals, etc) - but I have some more reading to do to learn the steps involved. I need something to temporarly lessen the problem.

My immediate question is this: what kind of steering fluid do I need to use? Is this something specific for the seastar unit? Can I use standard power steering fluid? I thought I even read something about using AT fluid.

I did a brief search but didn't find a consensus/definative answer to my question.

I'd PREFER to walk into an Autozone and grab what I need but I don't want to make my issue worse.

What can I/should I use?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Megabyte]

My immediate question is this: what kind of steering fluid do I need to use?
Is this something specific for the seastar unit?

Yes. SeaStar uses a specific fluid.
http://www.cabelas.com/p-0020036016189a.shtml

Can I use standard power steering fluid? I thought I even read something about using AT fluid.

Some people have done it (even some misinformed dealers), but it is not recommended.

Here are the instructions for filling and purging.
http://ww2.seastarsteering.com/PDFs/298401-A_12-18.pdf

 

[Hannibal]

MB - is there somewhere I can get this product locally? I am nowhere near a Cabellas and am over an hour from BPS.

I guess I can order it online but I was looking to knock this out prior to the weekend. Any options?

 

[Megabyte]

is there somewhere I can get this product locally? I am nowhere near a Cabellas and am over an hour from BPS.
I guess I can order it online but I was looking to knock this out prior to the weekend. Any options?

You might want to call Jim Maier at BOE Marine in Stevensville. I believe he stocks it. 866-735-5926
Of course, there is always West Marine on Jennifer Road.

 

[Hannibal]

is there somewhere I can get this product locally? I am nowhere near a Cabellas and am over an hour from BPS.
I guess I can order it online but I was looking to knock this out prior to the weekend. Any options?

You might want to call Jim Maier at BOE Marine in Stevensville. I believe he stocks it. 866-735-5926
Of course, there is always West Marine on Jennifer Road.

Ahh, West Marine ... duh. I completely forgot about that place. I have a project over on Rt. 1 in Alexandia - just a few blocks down from the West Marine store. I guess it would be a fair assumption that they carry it in stock.

Thanks!

 

[DaleH]

FWIW My brothers and I have been using Walmart 'SuperTech' power trim/tilt fluid in our Seastar helms and OB motor hydraulic systems (8 OBs alone with power trim/tilt & 6 hydraulic helms just between us 4 brothers) for the past 8 or more years ... with ZERO issues or complaints. I've also turned other friends onto it and no complaints there either. To be technical, the Walmart fluid was not certified to the Mil Spec ... but that doesn't mean it doesn't meet it. And, some aspects of that grade certification applies to use above 40,000 feet ... thus I think my boat will be safe ! But so far, none of our systems can detect that difference, so I'm OK with it !

For the record, Teleflex recommends a Mil spec H-5606 hydraulic fluid. The Teleflex website (http://ww2.seastarsteering.com/FAQs/faqs.htm) also quite clearly states:

Use of ATF: "In Emergencies only. ATF will void the warranty and decrease the efficiency of the steering system. SeaStar Steering Fluid can be replaced by any Hydraulic fluid with Mil Spec H5606." I'll add that ATF is not a recommeded fluid, as the viscosity is different and it will make the steering harder.

Here's HOW TO properly check and fill your system: viewtopic.php?t=1424