LimaBravo
New Member
Hey Gang!! Question for the knowledge base out here:
Last year I had a mechanic replace my Type 1 AutoPilot hydraulic pump support bracket. (It was loose and somewhat rotted). This required the removal and replacement of the Type 1 pump, and I'm (now) sure they did not bleed the system.
My steering got really hard and "lumpy" so I topped it off, but it happened again shortly after filling.
The steering cylinder for the inboard rudders developed a small leak, discovered when inspecting the rear bilge and noticing red fluid in the bilge below the hydraulic cylinder.
Question 1 - can air in the SeaStar system cause a seal to leak?
Question 2 - if so, can a proper system bleed fix the leak ?
I'm hoping for a yes, but if not, I will order the re-build kit and install new seals. The shaft and cylinder do not have any corrosion or damage so they are good candidates for a rebuild if a proper bleed won't fix it.
Thanks for your help !!
LB
This is a 1998 370 Aft Cabin, gas motors, with the SeaStar steering System. Single helm, single pump, one hydraulic actuatior between the rudders, with a type 1 AutoPilot pump in-line.
Thanks!
Last year I had a mechanic replace my Type 1 AutoPilot hydraulic pump support bracket. (It was loose and somewhat rotted). This required the removal and replacement of the Type 1 pump, and I'm (now) sure they did not bleed the system.
My steering got really hard and "lumpy" so I topped it off, but it happened again shortly after filling.
The steering cylinder for the inboard rudders developed a small leak, discovered when inspecting the rear bilge and noticing red fluid in the bilge below the hydraulic cylinder.
Question 1 - can air in the SeaStar system cause a seal to leak?
Question 2 - if so, can a proper system bleed fix the leak ?
I'm hoping for a yes, but if not, I will order the re-build kit and install new seals. The shaft and cylinder do not have any corrosion or damage so they are good candidates for a rebuild if a proper bleed won't fix it.
Thanks for your help !!
LB
This is a 1998 370 Aft Cabin, gas motors, with the SeaStar steering System. Single helm, single pump, one hydraulic actuatior between the rudders, with a type 1 AutoPilot pump in-line.
Thanks!