hydraulic fluid

[martinriches]

I have a leak in the hydraulic steering system .What sort of fluid should i use to top up with and would it be compatable with the remaining fluid or should I drain the system and start again?

I haven't tried to fix the leak yet, it seems to be at a tee joint. Any tips for fixing the leak?


Thanks Martin

 

[oGaryo]

atf Dexron III should be ok

 

[stelican]

What colour is the oilin the bilge

 

[omega2]

Our helm pump is Vetus, and the fluid from them is very expensive. Get hydraulic jack fluid from motor spares place does the job. Not sure about fixing leaks though

 

[superheat6k]

Do you know where the leak is ?

As mentioned Dexron II or III, the original is normally an Aero grade ISO 15 viscosity oil. I've used Dexron II on my last two boats no probs. last boat was a Vetus pump, this one has Teleflex

PM me if you want the Teleflex manuals. I had to repair a casing leak on the Vetus, and took some photos of the pump when stripped.

 

[PCUK]

You need to know what the original oils is before topping up. Usually 15 grade hydraulic oil as used in jacks (as already said!)
Automatic transmission fluid could well damage the seals if not designed for your particular system.

 

[martinriches]

What colour is the oilin the bilge[/QUOT

It's light blue.

Martin

 

[Sandyman]

If your buying hydraulic fluid its worth doing a search on Ebay.
I bought a 20Ltrs drum of Telus 10 on there for the price of a single Ltr in a Chandlers.

 

[stelican]

What colour is the oilin the bilge[/QUOT

It's light blue.

Martin

Hi Martin
I have never seen light blue oil
Sorry unable to help

 

[Sandyman]

light blue ? ? ? sounds more like antifreeze.

 

[talltim]

light blue hew suggests hydraulic jack oil

Available at Halfords

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/..._productId_220545_langId_-1_categoryId_255207