Power trim fluid

[Jims invader]

Was checking trim fluid on my boat I recently bought and I'm a confused after reading some of the forums on what to add for trim fluid. I have a Mercruiser set up and after checking the fluid I can't determine what fluid is in there. It is not atf or motor oil. It is clear in color and has a smell similar to paint thinner but not as strong. It isn't as thick as oil either. Trim works fine and has no leaks. Is it possible this is hydraulic fluid and if so. What type should I use??

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,.... As I said, Ya, it's probably hyd. oil,....

You can still top it off with Atf,.... Nothin' bad will happen,....
Water on the other hand is never good, as ya probably already know,....

The trim pump is a really basic hyd. pump, that'll pump anything ya pour into it, includin' water, it just don't like the water,...
But will run just Fine on any oil that's 'tween, say 5W, 'n 50W,....
Aft/ Hyd. oil to motor oil,.... Merc has spec'ed both over the years,....

Oh,.... 'n a Happy Easter to you too,....

 

[fishrdan]

I'd pick up a tube of "Tilt and Trim fluid" to top off the reservoir at the local sporting goods store, even WalMart should have it.

Though as Bondo said, you can run anything in there you want (though I doubt Mercruiser would advise it). I'm running engine oil in my system, ATF works too. I don't like mixing fluids, unless I'm in a pinch, so it the system is filled with tilt and trim fluid top it off with the same, engine oil - top off with engine oil, ATF top off with ATF.