Magnefine Filters And Power Steering Systems

[IEZXM]

I have a 15 Pathfinder, I tried to put a Magnefine 3/8" in-line filter in the return side of one of the hoses. I was kinda nervous about the flow restriction and causing too much back pressure on the pump or lines before the filter.(High pressure side). After a test drive it must of restricted the flow and caused some kind of back pressure because my rack and pinion had just a drip leak from one of the inlet connections after the test drive. This is kinda what I was afraid of...so I removed the filter and the leak stopped. Has anybody else tried Magnefine filters in the power steering system or is it better to just flush the system every 20 or 30k miles? Also, I have a magnefine filter in the return side before oil cooler on my CVT but that doesn't have as much pressure as a power steering system has. Any thoughts or recommendations would be appreciated. thanks.

[AlanAZ]

I have put Magnefine filters in multiple Lexus & Toyotas when replacing the steering racks (they have notoriously poor seals from factory, and the filter will extend the life of the rebuilt racks - from the Rack Doctor, SC) and I have not seen any increase in back pressure in the return line and subsequent leaks.

I don't have a Magnefine in the PS of my 2003 QX4, as they are not known for leaky racks (but do have one in the AT return line), but have completely flushed and replaced the PS system with Valvoline Maxlife ATF, which transformed the steering making it as smooth as glass (also on the Toyotas.)

You might ensure the connectors are properly tight.

[IEZXM]

damn....I already threw away the magnefine filter.....

[IEZXM]

My pathfinder only has 35k miles on it, so sometimes I'm a little hesitant to make changes because i'm not a mechanic, just small time DIY, don't want to do more damage then good trying to add something and makes matters worse.

[IEZXM]

I know you say there's no back pressure created but whenever a filter is put into a pump system, there is always flow restriction even of slightest percent, which causes back pressure, which can cause pump to fail prematurely if the flow restriction is too great causing too much back pressure making pump work harder then what it's designed to operate at, which is what i'm afraid of...here is a link to a document talking about back pressure and pump systems. https://www.geotechnical.net/Technical% ... essure.pdf

[IEZXM]

FYI--The electric power steering pump for 2015 Nissan PF is 2,000$, 1500ish$ online. The rack and pinion is only 1,000$. Some food for thought, risking putting the pump out prematurely due to pressure constraints isn't worth the risk. Better off doing a full flush of fluid every 10, 15 or 20k miles which would remove the majority of any trace metals anyways...IMO.