Getting new hyd steering hoses made this week, the hoses have regular steel crimp jic fittings slightly rusted. Is this typical or do most use stainless fittings?

I could see how you might have a problem in your area around the salt. I did my steering about 3 seasons ago and used regular zinc plated steel fitting and they are fine still. Granted, fresh water and stored inside probably helps. They are not as bright and shiny as they were new but now have a slight dull color but zero signs of rust. As I type this I was thinking. my external fittings are stainless and all interior are steel. I would run this same combo in fresh or salt without to many concerns.

Mine are rusted looking and nasty. Not bad for use I'm just re rerouting them and replacing while I'm there. Far as I can tell the stainless fittings are like $80 each so probably have 800-900 in fittings.

yes it is an expensive game we play!

I believe some of the external fittings are nickel plated. Probably alittle cheaper then stainless but still hold up pretty well. I don't think zinc coated steel would hold up well in the salt but probably fine in fresh water.

Hydraulic fittings are expensive but you can save some money by assembling yourself. I used the stainless on the outside and brass fittings everywhere else. I used the aeroquip reusable fittings and they are easy to assemble. If you purchase a mandrel to fit the hose and end you will be all set. If you use aeroquip hose and ends they can be purchased from Hydraulic Supply with locations in Ft. Lauderdale and many other locations around the country.

Like I mentioned before, I would run stainless or like Mickey said, nickel plated on the external stuff but should be fine with regular fittings inside the boat.

I believe imco stuff is chrome plated brass fittings on the external hoses

I replaced all four of mine with Imco 50 bucks a hose, good stuff

I got the plated stuff for inside and stainless for the transom lines, thanks guys.