TOPIC: tech q: SeaStar Hydraulic steering fluid

tech q: SeaStar Hydraulic steering fluid 13 years 3 months ago #33596

jim bart
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Our "family boat" has a SeaStar hydraulic steering system, and after sitting all winter, the system needs to be bled [annually]. Well, this year, its time to buy another quart. The problems, in addition to costing $20/qt, is, there is no place to buy it locally. Their site lists a few alternatives [aviation fluids -- not like I can find them locally, either!] I'd hate to order online, and wait, and pay shipping. Can't I run out to NAPA and get something off the shelf?? Right??? Like what????
Thanks in advance,
jim

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Re: tech q: SeaStar Hydraulic steering fluid 13 years 3 months ago #33624

professor Offline Gold Boarder Posts: 758 Karma: 87 Thank you received: 1	How fast does it turn ????? How hot does it get ????? What pressures are involved ??? You would think something like automatic transmission fluid would work. Or even hydraulic jack oil for that matter. You do not need anything special here Check this box to be notified of replies to this topic. Note: BBcode and smileys are still usable.
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Re: tech q: SeaStar Hydraulic steering fluid 13 years 3 months ago #33635

jim bart
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Unfortunately, I dont have specs on the system, but its not high pressure, and not really any heat.
I DO THINK that hydraulic fluid of, well, any type, would be fine, but I'm no mechanic, and everything I've seen online from the manufacturer REQUIRES their product. On our small lake, its not like it could leave me stranded out too far if it ever failed...

If they only said how or why it was necessary, or, is it just for their profit?