Outboard Motor Hydraulic System Fluid

[Schick]

My 200 hp Skeeter engine is steering very stiff especially when turning left. It is 4 years old and I have never added hydraulic fluid. Is that likely the cause of the stiff turning and if so how do actually add hydraulic fluid. There are 2 nipples that look like oversized grease fittings, so is there a special tool for injecting the hydraulic fluid through the nipples?

Thanks

 

[Boatist]

Re: Outboard Motor Hydraulic System Fluid

If it hard to turn one direction then I would adjust the skeg on the motor cavitation plate first.

Next when is the last time you greased the motor steering pivots? Is the motor real free or is it stiff like 5 year old dried out grease?

Also lube the Steering wheel bearing and mechinics.

Also the parts that slide or move in and our for the attachment to the motor.

It not going to be because it low on fluid. If it was low I would expect the motor not to turn when you moved the wheel or to be real spoongy like brakes that need bleed.