Changing power stearing fluid is a GOOD IDEA!

[JasonCzerak]

For some reason, I've kept the same PS fluid in the truck for just over 80,000 miles. The other day the steering wheel got "jumpy" it would against me a little. I pop the cap and there would be pressure (and some PS fluid out side?!?!). Co-worker suggested that It maybe boiling the fluid.



It's only 1. 5 quarts (if that). so I cracked the lines, dropped the fluid and sure as ... . burnt ATF comes flowing out.



Replaced with new ATF and perfect steering! Brake peddle is much more firm and responsive to boot! feels like the rear brakes are working better.

 

[rweis]

1. 5 quarts = 48 ounces



If you replace what one of the suction type tools will get from just the ps fluid tank (about 16 ounces / 4@ 4 oz containers full) every 6 months or so you will find the fluid will never get more than a very light brown (ie very usable, but could be changed).



Put it in your routiene of every other oil change



Bob Weis

 

[JasonCzerak]

1. 5 quarts = 48 ounces



If you replace what one of the suction type tools will get from just the ps fluid tank (about 16 ounces / 4@ 4 oz containers full) every 6 months or so you will find the fluid will never get more than a very light brown (ie very usable, but could be changed).



Put it in your routiene of every other oil change



Bob Weis

Good idea. Thank you.

 

[RRees]

Very good idea.



Thanks for the tip.

 

[AKaiser]

Replaced with new ATF and perfect steering! Brake peddle is much more firm and responsive to boot! feels like the rear brakes are working better.

Not sure what you're trying to say regarding the rear brakes, as I doubt there's any correlation to replacing the PS fluid.

 

[JasonCzerak]

Not sure what you're trying to say regarding the rear brakes, as I doubt there's any correlation to replacing the PS fluid.

As you may know, the PS fluid is what "boosts" the service brakes right?

Well, on a hard stop the peddle would fade. I chalked this up to "3rd set of Napa pads on original, tuned just once rotors".

Since I've changed the PS fluid the brakes are very "touchy" in comparison. the truck feels as tho it's not trying to "dive" as much and stops more level.

I can't explain it as I have the slightest clue how the PS system poweres the services brakes.

 

[MMeier]

I usually pop one of the cooler lines off every couple of oil changes and let it drain from there. However, my cap does pop off once in a while also, tried a new cap, same deal. Now I silicone the thing on, last a while before I have to redo, wonder why this is?

 

[Cattletrkr]

hmmmmm... nearing 160K on original PS fluid. It has a slight leak, but it's never low. I've wondered about changing it, but all I ever get is weird looks.

 

[LanceD]

I wonder if this will fix mine, lately it has been kindof jerking to the right or left randomly. I figured it was parts wearing out, but my balljoints are good, steering linkage, track bar, and alignment, could it be?

 

[GOlsen]

If u pop off a cooler line and let it drain out, when you refill it do you have to bleed the air out of it? If so, how's the best way to do that?

 

[JasonCzerak]

If u pop off a cooler line and let it drain out, when you refill it do you have to bleed the air out of it? If so, how's the best way to do that?

I didn't bleed anything. I just let thing run. when you first start it up, have an extra hand do the starting or "filling" of the PS fluid reservoir since it will suck the entire reservoir down real quick.

Press the brakes a few times, turn the wheel back and forth a little few times. (lock to lock if you have the axel on jack stands, or don't care about your tires, steering parts or pavement. ).


The other issue I found shortly after having this "fixed" my problem is axel/u-joints. it came back after a few days. Even on a cold start. Rather interesting if you ask me. I had a look see at the axel joints the passenger side one is showing good sings of ware the drivers is ok. .

 

[PLaFrombois]

When you crack a line to the pump, air will enter in the system. Leave the cap off, and turn the steering wheel back and forth. This should allow any air that's trapped in the system to escape.



Paul

 

[Shelby Griggs]

I don't think ATF is the proper PS fluid, at least on pre 3rd gen trucks, not sure about the newer ones. I notice at least 2nd and 3rd gen owners posting in this thread, so before you dump ATF in there you might want to see what the correct fluid is supposed to be. I changed my 2001 out once or twice using the Vavoline SynPower fluid, it works good.



SHG

 

[JasonCzerak]

I don't think ATF is the proper PS fluid, at least on pre 3rd gen trucks, not sure about the newer ones. I notice at least 2nd and 3rd gen owners posting in this thread, so before you dump ATF in there you might want to see what the correct fluid is supposed to be. I changed my 2001 out once or twice using the Vavoline SynPower fluid, it works good.



SHG

For 3rd gen's it's ATF+4

 

[AFoulk]

whats the recommended fluid for a 2nd gen? Once in awhile, when I'm turning the wheel, trying to pull into a parking spot and barely moving, its like I have no power steering, even if I take the rev's up a bit. I wanna flush mine and see if that helps

 

[Royk]

I have a different problem but find this topic interesting. When winter temps drop to 10F or below, my steering makes horrific noises when I turn the wheel. It is also harder to steer, and first time hitting the brakes for a red light will wake you up! Brakes grab OK, but there is a delay. I have an 02. What is a recommended replacement fluid? I posted this problem years ago and never got a straight answer, other than to replace with a synthetic fluid.



Roy

 

[Shelby Griggs]

This is what I use:



Power Steering Fluid with Sealers & Conditioners



SHG

 

[Gary - K7GLD]

As you may know, the PS fluid is what "boosts" the service brakes right?



Well, on a hard stop the peddle would fade. I chalked this up to "3rd set of Napa pads on original, tuned just once rotors".



Since I've changed the PS fluid the brakes are very "touchy" in comparison. the truck feels as tho it's not trying to "dive" as much and stops more level.



I can't explain it as I have the slightest clue how the PS system poweres the services brakes.

UNLESS there's been some RADICAL changes in the steering/brake systems on our trucks, there's absolutely NO connection between them - and problems/fixes on one system should have NO effect on the other...



And no, changing the power steering fluid will NOT fix bad U-joints, either!

 

[Shelby Griggs]

Gary,



Depending on year, doesn't the power brake assist come from the PS system, rather than a vacuum canister? OK, after reading back a few posts, I am pretty sure that you were just messing with us, LOL.



BTW, I will be doing some survey work at Clyde Holliday Park, most likely right after memorial Day, probably the 30th. Maybe we can grab a bite or?



SHG

 

[Gary - K7GLD]

Gary,



Depending on year, doesn't the power brake assist come from the PS system, rather than a vacuum canister? OK, after reading back a few posts, I am pretty sure that you were just messing with us, LOL.



BTW, I will be doing some survey work at Clyde Holliday Park, most likely right after memorial Day, probably the 30th. Maybe we can grab a bite or?



SHG

No connection between the PS and PB system *I* am aware of - guess I'll hafta look closer at the plumbing in that area to make sure - I was wrong about something once before, 10 or 15 years back... :-laf :-laf



Look me up when you're in the area, be glad to hook up with you - 575-2945