I'm looking for some pics that show the rigging of hyd. lines, filters, and expansion tanks. inside the boat.

I have a few ??s too.

1. Should the filter be closer to the pump, the helm, or does it matter?

2. Does the expansion tank have to be mounted higher than the pump reservoir?

3. Do you use regular power steering fluid for the system?

Thanks,
Dave M.

I don't have any pictures but, the filter screws into the helm, the expansion tank has to be higher than the pump or it will leak, I used regular power steering fluid.

#1. on the transom in-line

#2. yes, it should be. It's just a reservoir. They are uneccessary, skip it, add it later if you feel you must (you wont). The stock pump will not cavitate if full to proper level.

#3. yes, Dexron ATF

Been here, done this from scratch in my driveway, complete Imco dual ram twin engine including helm, and ran the boat for six years.

Who's system and what size (speed) helm did you get?

I have a single ram Marine Machine add-on system that I am completing. I got the 120CC Char Lynn helm so if I want to add another ram later I have the capacity.

I already have a puke tank so I might as well use it. My PS pump was always leaking down onto the alternator which would sling the fluid all over. I don't know if I had a problem with the PS pump? It usually happened in rough water, maybe the cap was not locking down as good as it should.

I am repowering with a 496HO and I noticed that the PS pump is seperate from the reservoir, unlike my 454 MAG that the pump and reservoir were all one unit. You dont think I should bother with the extra tank? I may have a problem finding a place that is higher than the stock reservoir anyway. I have VERY LITTLE clearence under my hatch and the stock reservoir is close to the top of the motor already.

Thanks,
Dave M.

helm capacity also determines "speed" and turns lock to lock, a factor of speed...that is how much fluid does the helm displace how quickly when a valve is opened by moving the wheel.
At least this is how I understand it.
Unfamiliar with the new setup on 8.1's...but come to think of it I have 425's in my present boat with Latham and no seperate puke tank/reservoir.

Dave,
I have IMCO on mine and its all from the ps pump, I also run atf in it. I checked with a company that manufacturs hoses and was told atf has a higher aeration rate and boiling point than ps fluid (additives) so the will be less chance of air in the cylinder(s) from bouncing. I'm in Sykesville if you want to look at it, once we get through this frigid crap...Rob