Alpha one Gen 2, water in trim reservoir

[bicklebok]

Hello experts! I have been reading all the posts on here since I bought my boat several months ago. There are a handful of you guys on here that are absolutely awesome. And you know who you are. You guys give great advice to guys like me and never give anyone flack, no matter how bad they screwed up.

Anyway, I got the engine running pretty decent and Im working my way to the outdrive. The trim resovoir is milky. What is the usual source of water intrusion? How much damage is usually done when this happens because I dont know how long its been this way?

Im going to start reading what I can on fixing this but any advice is welcome.

 

[Grub54891]

Welcome to I boats, I'd take a guess that either the rams are leaking or a trim line on the exterior are leaking. Only parts that get wet can allow water in to the oil. Most I've seen are the lines. Only a few rams leaked in my experience.

 

[thumpar]

I will add to check the trim manifold where the lines from the inside are joined to the lines to the rams.

 

[tpenfield]

I had a trim hydraulic line start leaking right at the fitting on the trim cylinder, because the housing started corroding away and ate up the threads. . . salt water though. So, I'm not sure if you boat in salt or un-salted water.

Anyway, as stated, there is a leak in the system somewhere and the hydraulic system is pulling in water. You'll want to inspect the lines an fittings closely for signs of the hydraulic fluid (oil) as well as the trim rams themselves.

 

[bicklebok]

Thanks guys. I think I see where it's leaking. Looks like its the line that goes into the top of the cylinder. Im going to try and flush everything out and snug that line back up thats leaking.

I already did a search on this topic and saw a big heated discussion on the type of fluid to use. But just to confirm; i can use 10w 40 oil right?

 

[wahlejim]

I had the same thing, my seals were bad in my rams. Ordered a new seal kit, changed seals, and 2 hours later was good as new. Since it sounds like this is a new to you boat, check the condition of the hydraulic lines connecting to the rams. If they look worn, change them out at this time. You will be halfway there by pulling the rams off anyway.

 

[wahlejim]

Depends on your trim system. My manual calls for sae 30, same as my engine. Look at your manual, it will tell you. Stick with that.

 

[tpenfield]

I think it is 30 Wt oil that is spec'd. I have used 10W40 in a pinch, but don't tell any body.

 

[Pete104]

ATF is fine too!