Does it matter what type of steering fluid u use on bass boa

[W.C]

I was on the delta the other day and lost the steering to my bass boat.... when I stopped, I noticed that the hydraulic hose was loose and lost most my fluid. Anyhow, does it matter what type of fluid I use? I know wal mart has some marine type steering fluid at a good price and was wondering if it's okay? What do u guys think? Please let me know ASAP thanks all

[Revoke36]

I used the stuff from Walmart. I had a similar situation; lost steering. Walmart was my only option to get back on the water ASAP. It's performing flawlessly and it's been months since I put the fluid in. Hope this helps or someone with knowledge chimes in.

[stan7]

In an emergency you can put any 'non-flamable' liquid in there.

However, from what I understand the hydraulic-steering specific oil is a certain viscosity and using power-steering fluid or ATF or something else may make it difficult or impossible to steer. Its such a critical component of your boat I would go with the manufacturer recommended fluid only. If you use something else, make sure it meets the manufacturers specifications, which for Teleflex is MIL SPEC H-5606 C (p.s. its aviation-grade hydraulic oil)

[ash]

I would say look at what the manufacture recommends and go from there or call your local service tech and ask specifically what is needed for your boat.


I dont think it should matter, but adding or changing viscocity to the system may be an issue and bleeding it properly.