I have Zeiger full dual ram hydraulic/power steering. The last two seasons I have had a problem with air getting into the system and leaving me with about an inch of play in the drive after a day of hard running. There has been no noticeable loss of fluid or water in fluid.

Now my current question is this; While looking things over yesterday I noticed that the steering line pictured was oily. I wiped it down. Immediately fluid slowly started seeping from a pinhole just below the brass crimp on clamp. I would like to cut the hose off and install a brass nipple in the filter and double clamp the hose to the nipple. This would eliminate the quick release coupler at the filter and the angle fitting and crimped connection. The Zeiger diagram indicates that this is a high pressure hose but if that were the case then I would think that fluid would be squirting from that pinhole with the engine running. It was not. Will my fix of clamping the hose be sufficient? Could air have been entering my system through this hole? I circled the problem area on the diagram, which looks a little different.

It's the pressure side, air can't get in. The fluid in the pump reservoir is likely sloshing around letting air in. Get a remote reservoir kit. http://imcomarine.com/nvcatalog/imco_catalog.pdf Page 112

I'd try bypassing or replacing that inline filter, there is already a magnet in the PS pump. The filters are great for new installs but get stopped up eventually and always add to the steering effort.

I also agree with the remote reservoir for the PS pump

I put the remote reservoir on last year and it didn't help my problem. Will cutting and double clamping this hose be sufficient to keep it in place? This leak has to be fixed regardless. I'm going to pull and pressure test the cooler also.

Most good auto parts stores can make up hydraulic lines. You'll be saving yourself from a bad day by replacing the hose.

Replace the entire hose. Have a new hose made with new fittings.

That hose is on the high pressure side. Get one made. Return side which is low pressure, clamps are fine

OK, I'll call Zeiger about a new hose.

As mentioned before, the inline filter could also be a cause, if it is partially stopped up it could be causing the pump to bypass excessively. Replace or remove to test theory. Very unlikely that leak on HP side would allow air in.

Might check the char-lynn helm to see if it's wet around the shaft..

The helm is dry. All hoses have been checked repeatedly. I will remove and check the filter. I got the hose repaired today at Loryco in Waterford, Michigan. They did it for free! That act of kindness made my day! The hose is back on. Will check the filter soon though. Today is still cold and the garage isn't heated.