Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) OK guys...which PS fluid in my 2001 diesel?

[IdahoJim]

Answers on the 'net all over the map. I installed a new Borgesen pump last summer, and I've got a seal leak. Genos sent me a new pump and I want to be sure I'm
flushing and using the right fluid. I've been using an MS5931 fluid. I've never used ATF or ATF +4 in my rig. But from what I read the MS5931 is for older trucks...
what gives? My owners manual says Mopar # 04883077, which is MS5931 as far as I can tell. Need some help.
Jim

 

[BigPapa]

Here's a TSB covering power steering fluid:

http://srt-6.com/pdf/tsb/SB_19_005_03_PowerSteeringFluid.pdf

 

[IdahoJim]

Many thanks, Papa. Looks like my rig still gets MS5931. I'm going to take the advice of another guy on TDR, and flush the system beforwe I swap out the pump. Might use a little more fluid, but don't have to worry about running the pump a little dry as it's getting replaced anyway.

Jim

 

[Shelby Griggs]

I have been using Royal Purple Max Ez fluid, used a Valvoline synthetic for awhile, but it seemed to become unobtainium locally. Of course system was flushed prior to swapping to the synthetics, much less noise when cold.

Shelby

 

[Vaughn MacKenzie]

Yeah definitely do synthetic PS fluid. I use Amsoil but I have seen other brand fluids at auto parts stores. Never had any seal or leak issues on my 222,000 mile '98.5.

 

[The patriot]

I've been using the valvoline synthetics in the steering and brake systems for a while now.

 

[gtwitch]

Ditto on the AMZOIL I have used the amzoil in my 99 with no problems after I purchased it at 92k and had a steering box bottom seal out, replaced the seal and put amzoil in at that time and never looked back. In reality, it is just a hydraulic system and the vacuum pump added on. I now have over 225 k miles and still no leaks.
gtwitch in wyoming

 

[Crazy Horse]

Answers on the 'net all over the map. I installed a new Borgesen pump last summer, and I've got a seal leak. Genos sent me a new pump and I want to be sure I'm
flushing and using the right fluid. I've been using an MS5931 fluid. I've never used ATF or ATF +4 in my rig. But from what I read the MS5931 is for older trucks...
what gives? My owners manual says Mopar # 04883077, which is MS5931 as far as I can tell. Need some help.
Jim

***

I always used the Amsoil Power Steering Fluid after having my 02 2500 for 14 years. In Anchorage the OEM would squeal if it got below -15. After I drained the system out by removing the return line, I refilled with Amsoil PS Fluid and never had another problem. Once down here in SC with the heat of summer I changed it every 2 years until I sold it to a man in Texas.***