2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Power Steering flush

[wcjp]

I can't believe DC says nothing about periodic fluid change for the power steering fluid. I removed what could be termed a sludge type material. I replaced with Valvoline blended PS fluid. I started the vehicle and cycled the wheels many times before flushing again. I had no clue PS fluid is actually clear. I'll flush it a few more times this weekend.

 

[C Schomer]

I've done mine twice to stop the growling. I used RP syn the second time and it's never been so quiet. I pulled the return line off and flushed til it came out totally clean while stomping on the brakes and turning the wheel lock to lock. The wife was inside and I was outside dumping in the new stuff as fast as it would take it. Craig

 

[Rman]

So you did this with the truck running? Running those pumps dry is very dangerous... but it sounds as if you were able to keep it full. I've been doing the ole suction method. I'm on my 12th resivoir drain so far. Once a week I do it, uses up my fluid (I bought a case) and hopefully I'm gradually getting it all replaced.

 

[justinp20012500]

Thats good you guys are flushing your PS. . I need to do mine too, but I think you have to make sure the fluid is compliant with the breaks too. They run off the hydraulic pressure created form the PS. I was told not to use anything except all climate PS fluid from mopar, and not any type of ATF????

 

[Rman]

35k and counting from non mopar fluid. I'll take my chances. That mopar stuff sure didn't like the cold when I started it in the morning.

 

[rweis]

I think I remember something from Bill Flemming about a year ago that the Mopar AFT+4 was a mopar recommendation depending on the YEAR.



I have a 2002 and I think it was ok for 2002, but not for 2001 and before. I was going to swap over to Mopar ATF+4 and did a slight swap once (turkey baster method).



I've decided since then that the Valvoline Syn Power PS seems to be what quite a few use and am going to do a full swap with that.



Any idea of how many quarts to do several (6 or so) partial swaps?



Local Discount Auto is the only place I can find it around here at $3. 48 / quart.



Bob Weis

 

[Rman]

i have a suction pump, i get roughly between 1/2 - 3/4 quart depending the temp of the fluid. i changed it every day for a week and used up about 6-7 quarts. I bought a case of lubrication engineers 7500 monolec hydraulic fluid.

 

[Paulsdodge]

Power steering fluid change

Guys,

I would like to make a suggestion on how to quickly and easily change the power steering fluid and not have to bleed the system of any trapped air.

You need a vacuum suction pump and two line wrenches sizes 18 and 21mm (I think).

Break the power steering system loose at the hoses at the master cylinder, attach the vacuum pump and turn on, and let it drain it dry. Add power steering fluid again and turn pump on and drain dry again. Next, add more power steering fluid and turn pump on again stop the pump when the bubbles are removed, and keep a close eye on the ps fluid level in the pump. When the bubbles stop check the fluid, top off if necessary and your done. No bleeding the pump, hissing or any chance of pump cavitation.

This is the easiest job I have ever done on a ps fluid change, and it works.