My Compass

[harryjoe]

Any sailboat owner

I need to know what the fluid is in our compasses.

Have to refill mine

Thanks

AKA Sailfast

 

[Don S/V ILLusion]

It's a mineral oil blend. Can be found at any marine store or large hardware store. Some people prefer the real thing but straight mineral oil should normally suffice. The other obvious consideration is what failed that requires you to refill it. most compasses are repairable once you determine what failed.

 

[Benny17441]

I echo Don in recommending you find what part may have failed that you need to refill the compass. Years ago I found out the hard way ($$) that this is not a do it yourself job as pressure testing is necessary to locate minute leaks and confirm repair. Contact the compass manufacturer and have them recommend a factory authorized service representative. A rebuilt job will usually replace the card, the face, any defective casings and all seals plus they will fill it with proper mineral oil.

 

[kloudie1]

Harry, check out this thread from a couple of years ago.. covers the subject pretty well..:
http://forums.hunter.sailboatowners.com/showthread.php?p=547277&highlight=compass fluid