OMC SeaDrive steering and lift

M

mckennat

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I have leak in a steering piston in my 1990 SeaDrive unit (for a 225hp OMC 3L). I started to dis-assemble it tonight, to see if a local hydraulics guy could rebuild the piston, but I started to worry that the steering system's hudraulics might be integrated with the lift system. (I know I can fill the steering system from the high point at the helm, but I don't know where the reservoir for the lift is.) Could someone please provide insight? <br /><br />Thanks.<br />Tom
 
OBJ

OBJ

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Dec 27, 2002
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10,161
Re: OMC SeaDrive steering and lift

Welcome nerka!<br /><br />Separate systems nerka. One won't effect the other hydraulics wise.<br /><br />A seal and oring kit is still available for the steering cylinder. PN 987034. See your local John/Rude dealer.<br /><br />The power TNT (Trin N' Tilt) reservoir is located between the transom brackets, starboard side. Look for a large fill plug. Remember, check the level in the reservoir with the engine tilted all the way up. Normal level is even with the bottom of the fill hole.<br /><br />Hope this has helped.... :)
 
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mckennat

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Re: OMC SeaDrive steering and lift

Thanks, OBJ. I'll look for that kit, and start tearing 'er apart. <br />I appreciate the quick response. <br />Tom
 
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mckennat

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Re: OMC SeaDrive steering and lift

Well, OBJ...Couldn't find the kit locally (Juneau, AK) so I went to a hydraulics guy who thought he could get the job done with generic parts. He ended up having to order the seals, and they haven't arrived yet. While I'm waiting, I thought I'd see if I could pick your brain about re-filling the system. <br /><br />It's a Teleflex system. Can I use ATF to fill it or do I need to use a particular kind of hydraulic steering fluid? Any tips on bleeding the system effectively?<br /><br />Many thanks.<br />Tom
 
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phatmanmike

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Oct 24, 2003
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3,869
Re: OMC SeaDrive steering and lift

wow, i have a 1991 omc sea drive 225hp too, i thought i was the ONLY UNLUCKY ba$tard out there. woo hoo, im not alone<br /><br />i have completely dismantled my whole motor, removed the entire bracket and motor from bopat, removed the steering and trim components and anything else physically possible, so if you need any more help, email me or just post to this thread!<br /><br />any marina or west marine or boaters world or boat place or whatever should sell boat hydraulic steering fluid.<br /><br />dont use ATF. that is for tilt trim.
 
D

Dhadley

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Feb 4, 2001
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16,978
Re: OMC SeaDrive steering and lift

Nerka, what part of the steering are you working on? The power steering on the motor itself or the T-flex system in the boat?<br /><br />You can use ATF but the steering becomes stiffer especially in cold weather and given your location........
 
S

Solittle

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Apr 28, 2002
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7,518
Re: OMC SeaDrive steering and lift

My 1987 SeaDrives came with a Hynautic system at the motors.
 
M

mckennat

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May 23, 2005
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Re: OMC SeaDrive steering and lift

Thanks, guys, for the helpful comments. A couple of responses here: Dhadley, I'm working on the power steering on the motor itself. Myoutboards (Mike?), I do have a question for you: Do you know anyone who might want to buy (or trade a kicker for) this engine ? : ) I'm repowering this summer and wondering if there's any value to the OMC. The powerhead, lower unit, and SeaDrive are really in fine shape--under-used if anything. But I"m in Alaska, so I need ot assume $300 plus to ship. More than anything, I'd like to help a guy out, rather than send it to the dump.<br /><br />Thanks.<br />Tom
 
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Dhadley

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Feb 4, 2001
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16,978
Re: OMC SeaDrive steering and lift

You can remove the power steering and just use the straight T-flex hydraulic system. Hydraulic over power is nice but it will work without the power assist.
 
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