Started my spring list today.

[Doc O Rock]

Replace the steering fluid completely. How do I decide if I should have my helm rebuilt at the same time?
http://www.boatsteer.com/index.html
I'm also looking to upgrade my helm seat. Any suggestions? I'm thinking something like this.
http://www.llebroc.com/product-p/4brtrw03-.htm
We do some traveling, and the original seat just doesn't hack it after 4 to 6 hours at the helm.

 

[northern]

I have never replace steering fluid or heard of anyone else doing it. Is it a maintenance requirement?

 

[Doc O Rock]

Any hydraulic system needs to be flushed and since mine is 19 years old,,

 

[CNYBoater]

When I purchased my 200OVOB last year the steering was very loose, at least 1/4 turn either direction. I flushed, filled and bled the hydraulic system and the steering is nice and tight now. My 24 year old SeaStar II helm doesn't have any issues now.
A little difficult to fill at the helm and bleed at the outboard single handed but this is definitely going to be a spring maintenance for me. Especially since I'm in Central New York where the temperatures can really fluctuate in winter.