Hydraulic steering system

[Capttman]

Hi
I have no steering on the upper helm in my Albin 40 trawler. Heading to the boat Monday and would like some insight into filling the fluid and pressurizing it. I’m not sure of the brand of steering but it had a cylinder of fluid behind the bulkhead of the lower station
Thanks

[rebuckley]

Capttman - my 83, 36' has a Hynautic system. I have a copy of the user manual and it describes how to refill and purge the system. Email me and I can send you a copy (I will also make sure one is in our library here)
viewtopic.php?f=48&t=2956

[jleonard]

There's a reservoir at the upper helm also. Unless the previous owner left one, you'll likely have to find or make a funnel that will let you fill it without making a mess.
Then you can follow the bleeding instructions. My system does NOT have a air tank. I don't if Reb has one or not on his 36.
I have the "Capilano" system which has an adjusting knob below the wheel. This is to adjust the stroke of the pistons. I have mine adjusted to minimize the amount of turns lock to lock.

[rebuckley]

I do not have any air tank - and only a single reservoir (behind the lower helm) - but I do have a "bicycle pump" attachment on my reservoir (I keep a small bike tire foot pump on board) - after filling, I use the pump to bring the pressure up in the reservoir. I agree about the funnel - I picked up one with a bendable hose attachment to get inside for the fill. If your reservoir still has pressure - there is a ring in top that will allow you to release pressure before opening the fill. After the initial fill - I believe the instructions say to work both helm stations (you will immediately feel a difference) then recheck the fluid level in the reservoir to ensure you have enough. I do not remember the fill lines - but I think I have 4 glass sights on the tank, and it must be in the 3rd sight or above. (found some pictures)