Brown streaks under 89 evinrude steering arm.

[gotime242]

Hello, sorry for the noobie question, but yesterday i took the 89 20' osprey out and after a bit of running (some of which could be considered "hard" running) i noticed there were some brown vertical streaks on the transom...dripping from the steering arm on my 89 evinrude 150.

I would first think this was hydralic fluid...

Is this a big problem? Has a seal blown and will soon leak out all the fluid, and lock it up?

Again, sorry for being stupid, but where could i add more/service it?

Thanks!

[Capt. Bob]

First,
Is it safe to assume you have hydraulic steering?
Inside the transom (splash well) or outside of transom?
Wood rot from the mounting bolts?

Pics would help.

[gotime242]

Yes, hyd steering.

It is dripping on the transom, under the steering arm.

It only happened while running the boat last time, i would use it for a bit (good amount of steering usage) look back and see the drips...

Ill take a pic soon.

[Capt. Bob]

You should be able to rebuild (seal replacement) the the system if it's leaking really bad. I know the Sea Star system I have  makes a kit for this problem.
I know not everyone would agree but if it's steering fine and the loss of fluid isn't excessive, you may want to let it ride for a while and keep a watch on the level at the helm. That way you can complete the service during the winter when the boat is less used.

Fluid is added (in my system)at the helm. There should be a screw (can be removed by hand hopefully) where you add fluid.
Determine you system and do a Google search. You should come up with instructions on install, service and maintenance.
http://www.seatechmarineproducts.com/download/Seastar_Boat_Steering_Technical_Reference.pdf This is the Sea Star info for my system. I believe Aqua used this on their later models.

Good luck.

[gotime242]

Thanks a ton for the info.

After looking at that i dont believe i have hydralic steering. Might just be lube coming out?

Here is a picture:

[Capt. Bob]

Ah yes.
No hydraulic for you!  
Wipe it and re-lube

[RickK]

Looks like a wd40 moment - did you spray down the arm and during normal use, all the crud loosened up around the endcap seal and WALLA.  Ditto on what Bob said.