trim fluid...

frank98204 · 06-18-2011, 01:30 AM

after reading multiple posts on how rain water or a stern swamp can mix in the resivor through the cap vents..(think I got that right)..anyhow I just checked mine and as well I have milky fluid...so going to install drain holes so it can flow directly into the bulige..but my question is there seems to be a bunch of different answers on what fluid I can use...clearly mercruiser fluid is recomended..but lets face it can and will cost the most...jump in .. correct and or recomend something please....thank you

darkcalling · 06-20-2011, 04:07 PM

I just used synthetic powersteering fluid on my old boat never had an issue with it and most automotive supply stores will have 3 lvls of power steering fluid and as you said even the highest will be less then Mercruisers brand usually. If I am wrong someone correct me please as if I purchase this z278 this weekend she will get a full fluids change out at the least before she re enters the water.

frank98204 · 06-20-2011, 06:47 PM

thanks ...but now I am really confused...it would seem hydraulic fluid of some kind would be in order as you say power steering/transmission. ect..but in some of the posts and responses it was said someone (don;t recall who) that they changed it out with 10w 30w...? so I am like huh...that's why the confusion..spent some time wrenching on commercial fishing boats growing up and anything that well moves under pressure it requires hydraulic fluid...so...??...this speed boat thing is fun as can be just want to get it right..the only reason I am balking at the mercruiser fluid is because it may take a couple of flushes to clear out the milkyness...thank you...

darkcalling · 06-20-2011, 06:55 PM

Heh not sure I always was the same worked on alot of heavy equipment years back all pressure stuff was hydraulic fluid too and the trim is under pressure and aka they are rams basically so I went with the power steering fluid and it ran ten years with it no problem but like I said I could be misinformed I will be hoping someone in the know for sure answers if you had a manual it would probably say if the merc fluid was hydraulic maybe.

frank98204 · 06-22-2011, 02:49 AM

thanks again going with the power stering fluid as you say it should be fine...just want to make sure I get all the milk out and keep it out then I will break down and put the mercruiser stuff in as the factory recomends...rolling eyes...can't wait to splash er' in this week~end,too late just got back...whooohooo....