Bleeding Simrad RPU160

[Meanwhile]

Has anyone done this process? I purged my hydraulic fluid, including running the AP to empty it. Now I have refilled the system and the helm works well but the AP needs to be bled. The pump is located under my seat so by removing the tackle drawers I can reach it (I hope).

I'm guessing that when I open up the listed ports A,B & C, fluid will come rushing out? I've not bled the pump before.

Photo of manual page below.

 

[TortugaBob]

I have the same pump, but never totally drained the hydraulic fluid when added my AP. I literally had to suspend a bottle above helm fill and leave it for several days, constantly working the wheel back and forth until the bubbles came up. Also ran the pump back and forth to purge. It will certainly leak out if you open each port as suggested, but it may be faster to get out air. No big deal to leak a little fluid, use a lot of rags.

 

[Meanwhile]

Thanks for the reply.
I'm picturing myself in traction after bleeding it, one handed as I crawl on the floor.

 

[Meanwhile]

I give up. I'm looking for a tech to fix this. It might be the pump itself. I've looked online for a service manual for the pump but Simrad must be closed fisted with those.

 

[Meanwhile]

Got it.

Had to make a drawing to understand. I had not bleed the AP lines enough. Got a catch basin and turned the wheel more. The return line fooled me into thinking the lines going aft were full.

Time for a snip of 10 yr old. I'm beat. I only have so many up & downs into the boat, let alone up & down the bilge and autopilot pump.

 

[wrxhoon]

You should be able to bleed the system at the cylinder bleed valve . Feed the fluid on the helm open the bleed valve while you are turning the steering ( 2 people is easy) . You should have a clear tube on the return ( none pressure), so you cab see the bubbles. You have to make sure the helm always has fluid in it don't run it low. Keep turning the steering if you have to stop shut the valve on the cylinder. Once you bleed the system and you don't see any bubbles on the clear tube you are done as long as you don't have any leaks you won't have to touch it again until you need to replace the fluid.