Don't Fight the Wheel. Restore Smooth, Safe Control.

Marine hydraulic steering systems (like the popular SeaStar or Uflex brands) are designed to be effortless. However, over time, the hydraulic fluid absorbs moisture from the marine environment, and tiny air bubbles get trapped in the lines.

Air is compressible; hydraulic fluid is not. When air is in the system, your steering feels "mushy," jerky, or stiff. You might turn the wheel a few inches before the engines actually move. This lack of precise control is dangerous, especially when docking in wind or navigating crowded Long Beach harbors at speed.

The "Power Purge" Difference

Old-fashioned manual bleeding (turning the wheel back and forth for hours) rarely gets all the trapped air out of long hose runs. We use professional-grade Power Purge equipment.

• Complete Fluid Exchange: We force new, clean MIL-SPEC hydraulic fluid through the entire system—from the helm pump to the engine cylinders—pushing out all old, contaminated fluid.
• Air Elimination: The pressurized system ensures that every microscopic air bubble is evacuated, resulting in instantly tighter, smoother steering response.
• Leak Check: During the pressure phase, we inspect your helm pump seals and cylinder end glands for weeping, catching potential failures before you lose steering completely.

Signs Your Steering Needs Flushing

• Jerky or "Lumpy" Feel: The wheel feels like it's clicking or jumping as you turn it.
• Excessive Play: You can turn the wheel significantly before the engines respond.
• Hard to Turn: Steering requires excessive effort, even at slow speeds.
• Visible Leaks: Oily residue around the steering wheel hub or back near the engine steering rams.

Why Choose Breeze Marine?

• Certified Techniques: We follow factory-specified bleeding procedures for SeaStar, BayStar, and Uflex systems.
• The Right Fluids: We never use generic ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) unless specified by the manufacturer. We use correct aviation-grade hydraulic fluids that resist water absorption.
• Mobile Convenience: We bring our purging equipment right to your dock, getting you back on the water faster.

Is Your Steering Safe?

If you are fighting the wheel, you aren't in control. Contact us today for a professional system bleed.