Offshoreonly.com - Full Power Steering Is Getting Air In It. Why?

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Full Power Steering Is Getting Air In It. Why?

I have Zeiger full dual ram, helm back power steering. It was fine for 2 seasons but at the end of last season I got play in the cylinders and had to bleed it. I was able to get all but about 1/8" of play out of it; It used to be rock solid. Now this spring, the same thing. I bled it repeatedly and was able to get it to about 1/8" of play. Boat ran great several times out. The steering still had about 1/8" play so I figured I'd re-bleed it and be good to go. Now after just sitting out of the water for a couple of weeks I am back to about 1/2" of play in the cylinders. The fluid level has not dropped and does not appear to be overheating or foaming. Any ideas?:confused:

BTW, I checked all fittings and hoses. There is a quick connect fitting at the filter though but the o-ring looks good. That is the only connection I can't tighten.

77 views and not one idea.... :(

Did you try Zeiger? The manufacture would be my first point of contact. I have spoke with him in the past and he has been helpful.

If you are not actually seeing aerated fluid it just might be a seal in a cylinder or the system. If it is solid while running the engine and and gets play after it sits for a while. It just might bleed by after a bit of time.