Steering fluid

[potterhead2002]

So after a brief hiatus, I took the plunge and bought an ‘04 Trophy with a ‘14 Mercury 150. I noticed a little blue oil in the motor well and traced it to fitting which I tightened.
There's a sticker at the helm that says use only Seastar oil which is brown. I'm thinking maybe the Quicksilver hydraulic oil might be blue and the po used that. Can anyone confirm?

 

[Sandy]

From the SeaStar website FAQ page:

"Q:Can I substitute Transmission Fluid (ATF) for the recommended SeaStar Fluid?
A: In Emergencies only. ATF will void the warranty and decrease the efficiency of the steering system. SeaStar Steering Fluid can be replaced by any Hydraulic fluid with Mil Spec H5606."

Check the specs on any hydraulic fluid you are thinking of buying , but any Mil-H-5606 (aircraft) hydraulic fluid will work just fine.
Note, it is a bit easier to find any leaks if you use the dyed fluids.

https://www.aircraftspruce.com/menus/lg/hydraulic.html

 

[potterhead2002]

Thanks, I just bought a quart of Seastar and topped it off.
Different color but I’m pretty sure it’s the same stuff.