Flushing Power Steering

[Draen]

Hey,

My power steering reservoir is about half way and I'm not sure what oil was used in the last service. I'm guessing itd be like the engine oil, where you cant just mix and match.

So I wanted to flush the system and put in some new stuff.

In a lot of threads a few guys hve suggested to get a syringe and just get as much out as possible and then fill it up. Then I went to a mech and they said $140, which means either they are f*cking me around or they do it a 'proper' way.

Just curious how you guys flush your power steering fluid?

[benl1981]

Mate the pumps arent that fussy. As long as you get Dexron III Auto fluid that on the back says its compatible with power steering systems you should be right.

If you want to be thorough you could pull the return line at the reservior and let that empty into a container as you keep topping it up with fresh stuff. But I wouldnt bother. If you can empty your reservoir - either syrninge or other then just top it up you should be right.

EASIEST and what I would do. Go down to supercheap get some castrol dexron III auto trans fluid (1L) for $9.50 and top up

[Draen]

Mate the pumps arent that fussy. As long as you get Dexron III Auto fluid that on the back says its compatible with power steering systems you should be right.

If you want to be thorough you could pull the return line at the reservior and let that empty into a container as you keep topping it up with fresh stuff. But I wouldnt bother. If you can empty your reservoir - either syrninge or other then just top it up you should be right.

EASIEST and what I would do. Go down to supercheap get some castrol dexron III auto trans fluid (1L) for $9.50 and top up

Thanks for your input.

What makes you so sure that the pumps are 'fussy' - just curious?

So you reckon 1L should do it? Is there a way to bleed the system after I put thenew stuff in? Anything else to keep in mind or is it that easy?

[benl1981]

They aren't fussy.

In all the cars Ive owned Ive never had a faulty pump and often topped up with any auto fluid lying around.

Most people never change the fluid. Its a good idea to take out as much as you can and replace with fresh fluid.

My pump at one point was making heaps of noise but I think it was just low on fluid and some air got in. Topped it up - turned the steering wheel side to side 10 or so times with the reservior cap open and all the bubbles came out. Its been fine over a year later.

Compared to an auto transmission the job the power steer system does isn't nearly as severe on the fluid ..

Thanks for your input.

What makes you so sure that the pumps are 'fussy' - just curious?

So you reckon 1L should do it? Is there a way to bleed the system after I put thenew stuff in? Anything else to keep in mind or is it that easy?