Power Steering Fluid question???

[NightRiderQ45]

Good Morning! I have a question for all. I plan to get my power steering fluid flushed this week and I have a few questions about what fluid to use and how much. I've used the search button to get general answers, but not exactly what I needed to know.

My question are...

1) what type of fluid can I use for my flush? I read the owner's manual and they said DexIII/Mercon atf, but we all know that DexIII isn't licensed now. I've also read that actual "power steering fluids" are not good because they cause leaks??? I truly don't believe that, but that's why I'm asking the question so I can get some clear understandings.

2) Can I use something like Valvoline MaxLife atf, Mobil 1 Mercon V, or DexVI since that's better than DexIII, but don't know if it's good for the steering system. I was leaning towards the Maxlife.

3) How many quarts of atf will it take to complete the job flush job? I read 2 qts. I know the BG system uses their own fluid, but I could just bring them my own aft for the power steering service like I did for the transmission flush.

4) Can I use an otc name brand "power steering fluid" fluid and be ok? I also read that power steering fluid is basically the same as atf minus the red coloring of atf.

I'll weigh what everyone says and then schedule the service for either Thursday or Friday. Thanks!

[maxnix]

Most here use M1 ATF.

The BG is synthetic and includes a seal conditioner.

For the Sun machine (simultaneous extraction and fill) I used a gallon.

[NightRiderQ45]

Thanks for the quick reply. I just called a local shop by my job and they said they can do the flush service for $39! He said that 3qts max would do the job. He said that they use Quaker State atf but just so that I know he puts the correct atf in, I think I'm going to bring 3qts of Maxlife or M1 atf and have this done Wed. or Thurs. I think they use a Sun machine for that service too.

So no DexVI in power steering system???

[maxnix]

Dex VI is fine.

3 qts. should suffice. We over did it to be right.

[NightRiderQ45]

Great! I would love to use the Supertech Dex VI because of pricing lol...but I won't. I'll just go ahead and purchase 3qts of either Vavoline Maxlife or M1 aft...depending on price. It's starting to get cold here and I heard the "whinning" this morning so I figured it's time to get it done.

[NightRiderQ45]

the "turkey baster" idea doesn't work for 97-01's because of the fixed screen correct???

[maxnix]

It doesn't work because there is not simultaneous extraction replacement. But you will have to get by the fixed screen with the Sun machine or do a true total exchange with the rig connected to the low pressure hose.

[NightRiderQ45]

I think they are going to do the latter of your suggestions...I'll call and have them to do it on Wed.

[NightRiderQ45]

or do a true total exchange with the rig connected to the low pressure hose.

This is exactly what I just had to do. This was was a little messy, but they cleaned all of the fluid before I left. I just came back from having the job done with 2qts of M1 aft and there is no more howling. It as quiet as teenagers sneaking having sex in their parents house lol! The fluid coming out was deep burgandy to chocolate! I will never let that happen again! I'm glad that I had this service done so I should be able to go 30-40k on this full synthetic right?

[maxnix]

Since it was so bad, I would go back in 15K and use BG Quick Clean for Automatic Transmissions. Doubtless there is some unpleasant coating of the innards.

Then every 24K/2yrs. unless you do a lot of urban driving, then more often.