Hydraulic Shaft Pump Leaking on Blue Water

[Catpainzmcspice]

Hi! The only system on my 30' sloop that's a black art to me is Hydrolic transmission. I don't know anything about it.

I was 20 miles offshore yesterday motorsailing south of Cape Flattery (northwest tip of US) when the bilge filled with Hydrolic fluid and the shaft stopped spinning.

The Hydrolic unit that spins the shaft is in the bilge. There was a very distinct wheezy leaking sound coming from the unit. Although I couldn't tell where the leak precisely was.

If the leak is coming from the unit itself can it be fixed? Any ideas how, and can it be done in the water?

I sailed 30 miles back to Neah Bay in fog and the lightest most non-existent air ever, fighting the current at the mouth of the straight of Juan De fuca.

I'd like to fix this on my own, if possible and continue to San Francisco rather than sail back to Ballard with my tail between my legs.
Anybody have experience or tips with Hydrolic transmissions?

[Catpainzmcspice]

OK, I did some research to better narrow the problem. I asked the old owner of my boat the specifics on the hydraulic system. He said:

It's a closed hydraulic system - both ends are identical. And the unit in the bilge where shaft comes out is a Hydraulic motor, not a transmission.
OK, same question. If that motor is leaking from somewhere, is it fixable?

I'm at a dead end.

Thanks!

[stillbuilding]

Generalities only- most hydraulic motors can be repaired or replaced at reasonable price. DIY would suggest replace the motor cos repair is specialized. If just leaking hose then can get replacement quickly and DIY. Need to inspect hey.