Leaky Raymarine Hydraulic linear drive

[Cabo Jim]

I have a Raymarine type 2 model M81200 hydraulic linear drive that started to leak hydraulic fluid after 8 years of service. I spoke to the Raymarine tech and he said the unit is not repairable (cannot replace seals). Has anyone tried using an automotive product like "Lucas hydraulic oil booster and stop leak" or "Blue Devil Hydraulic Stop Leak"? I would hate to buy a new unit for $2400 US if I can solve the problem another way.

[RaymondR]

That's ridiculous, pull it apart and take the seals down to a bearing service shop and they will sell you some replacements off the shelf.

[DeepFrz]

Originally Posted by RaymondR

That's ridiculous, pull it apart and take the seals down to a bearing service shop and they will sell you some replacements off the shelf.

+1. Any hydraulic drive can be serviced. Take it to a hydraulic shop if you don't care to do it yourself.

[billknny]

+2 on it can be fixed.

Not sure what "Raymarine tech" you talked to, but you might try someone else. It used to be (as of 2 years ago) any Raymarine AP drive could be rebuilt for a fixed fee. I assume that still is available.

[RaymondR]

Take a close-up image of the end of the cylinder where the rod sticks out and we may be able to advise you on getting it apart.

[Lepke]

The cylinder uses either a cup seal or orings, available online or any good hydraulic shop. Any company that caters to fishing, farming, mining, or logging should be able to rebuild the cylinder. Diagram is from McMaster catalog about $5-8 if you're doing yourself.
Most autopilot makers offer a seal kit.