Hydraulic steering fluid leak

[jomo]

We noticed this fluid in the back of our Ranger 29 this afternoon. I believe it is hydraulic steering fluid. We don't know where it is leaking from. We were using the Garmin Auto Pilot pump on our trip but the steering felt normal.

Any recommendations for a mechanic in Port Ludlow that could help us address this before our trip back home to Shilshole?

Here is a picture of the leak:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vW7zlf ... sp=sharing

 

[BB marine]

That doesn't look like steering fluid. The hydraulic fluid used in the steering system should be Uflex oil which is almost clear. That looks like trans fluid that is used for the trim tabs. Look at the hose connections for your trim tabs. Possibly a leak from them.

 

[jomo]

You're right, it is not steering fluid. Checked the fluid and that would be clear.

I believe it is diesel fuel mixed with water. I would have no idea how or why it collected there.

We did have the engine fuel filters replaced with the impeller a few weeks ago. Could some fuel and water have leaked from that maintenance and then collected in the back during a long trip?

 

[BB marine]

Possibly, check the filters for leaks. I would use some paper towels or oil absorb towels if you have some onboard. Confirm that it is fuel and not trim tab fluid. If you do not find any leaks chalk it up to a service technician that doesn't clean up spills! :shock:

 

[jomo]

Confirmed it is not the trim tab fluid.

It's definitely fuel and water (mostly water) that collected.

I will observe closely tomorrow on the trip home to see if any more collects. Just started the engine and nothing seemed off.

I learned two things today. Steering fluid color and how to check the trim tab level/fluid. Silver lining.

 

[BradOwens]

I would look closely at the fuel filters. It's not hard to misalign the gaskets when putting them back on, and you can get small leaks around the rim.

 

[jomo]

We ran 22 miles back home yesterday at variable speeds and no water/fuel collected in that spot. I am going to keep an eye on the issue and assume for now it was caused by the mechanic not cleaning up properly after the maintenance.

 

[Jfrano]

I’m having the same problem on my 29. Have determined
It’s Not trim tab fluid. When I use self absorbent
Material picks the pink diesel Up and Leaves the water behind.

There are two generator fuel filters on the starboard side. The engine fuel Filters are on the other side of the engine.

Did you figure out the source?

Thanks
Joe

 

[RichBirk]

Looks like the starboard side of the boat opposite the fuel filter side. Clean it up and see if when you refuel it shows up again. Our boat had a small hole in the fuel fill hose due to a sharp screw in the wrong place. Kevin took care of it for us under warranty. It was quite a job. Kevin rocks.