Volveo Penta

Volvo Penta's Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) Kills Cylinders

Are you the proud owner of a Volvo-Penta in-board marine engine? If yes, then my story may be helpful to you. Last summer as I was doing the yearly service of my boat, I noticed a white and creamy substance coming out of my lifting cylinders. This "Mayonnaise" is what happens when cylinder's transmitting fluid (oil) is mixed with water. It basically meant that my lifting cylinders were no longer waterproof and were at risk of getting further damaged together with the entire lifting system (pump and tubes). As most would do in such case, I called my Volvo-Penta retailer who told me that the cylinders cannot be repaired and need to be replaced for a cost of EUR 900 each (there are two!!). Fortunately enough, I was advised to contact a professional of hydraulic transmission systems who told me that: 1. My cylinders can be repaired (only joints had to be replaced) 2. The leak was likely due to the use of Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) that's known to "eat" joints. So I got my cylinders fixed (it costed me 300 EUR in total for both) and I asked my Volvo-Penta retailer how to clean and refill the hydraulic system. Guess what he tried to sell? ATF! He even argued that by using other hydraulic fluids my insurance company may not cover me in case of an accident.... Bullsh...! Fortunately again, the hydraulician provided me with standard transmission fluid (which is yellow and not red like the ATF) and helped me clean and refill the system. After it happened I contacted several marine engine professionals who all confirmed that ATF damages cylinder joints and shouldn't be used unless I wanted to have to replace my cylinders earlier than necessary. Getting into the discussion with another Volvo-Penta retailed, he explained that not only does Volvo-Penta not profide the joint kits to fix the cylinders but they also prohibit their retailers from offering reparation services. Very customer friendly!