Hydronic steering oil

[Sager]

I am seeing a recurring hydrollic steering oil leak from the fill cap on the steering wheel. Should I be concerned? When do i know I need to fill with more hydrolic oil?

 

[BB marine]

Assuming you have a Uflex helm. Most Uflex hydraulic helms have a vented cap (black cap) the (grey plug) is not vented and is found on lower station helms. Temperature Changes can cause a slight expansion of the oil and as the oil expands it will seep past the vented cap leaving an oil residue.This is normal. It usually is not much. If the system is bleed properly and there are no leaks in the system you really never should have to add oil to it. If you want to check the oil level. Remove the vented cap and look at the oil level. The oil level should be between the bottom of the threads to 1/2" below the threads in the housing. Basically if the helm is mounted horizontally 0 degrees to about 20 degrees the oil should be at the bottom of the first thread. If the helm is at an angle the level is about a 1/2'" below the thread. I always just keep it about 1/2" below once all the air is out of the system.

 

[jswhal]

My Uflex pump on the aft station was severely corroded by a leak from the cup holder right above it. I had to replace it at $500. Make sure there is a drain hose leading to the bilge at the bottom of the cupholder or plug the hole in the bottom if you're in a rainy area.