Steering wheel just spins loose, fluid leaking out from under steering wheel

[georgelbenson]

Had the boat hauled out several week ago, when it was put back in the steering wheel just spun loose. Did not turn the rudders. There was also fluid leaking from under the wheel. Do I need to take the wheel off and investigate or does it sound like air is in the system and I need to bleed the air out of the steering? Thanks for any help you can offer George

 

[CNYBoater]

I would check the fittings for leaks at the helm. My seastar unit is accessible under my dash if I lay on my back. The only thing visible from helm chair is the tilt shroud and wheel. Removing my wheel just gives me access to the shaft.

I use this bookmarked page for my maintenance, as well as the SeaStar I manual.

http://www.seastarsolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Hydraulic-Steering-Maintenance.pdf

 

[bahamabreisus]

If you are leaking just behind the wheel, there is a replaceable seal. If so you can replace and add fluid. Bleeding can be done by turning wheel lock to lock to purge air. Refill till stops going down. You should be able refill and purge for temporary steering, they dont loose much through that seal.

 

[georgelbenson]

Thanks for your responses, gives me a start