Power Steering Fluid Flush: 4.0 SOHC

aldive · 02-22-2008, 09:01 AM

In the past I have always used the turkey baster method to replace power steering fluid. Yes, I always use synthetic power steering fluid, never ATF.

I used Redline Synthetic Power Steering Fluid (http://www.redlineoil.com/products_c...ubCategoryID=5 ) I obtained it at Jegs for $8.99/quart ( http://www.jegs.com/webapp/wcs/store...y=OrderItemAdd ).

Having never been satisfied with the previous method, I decided to perform a complete flush of the power steering system ( pump, reservoir, lines, cooler ).

To begin the procedure, the truck was jacked up and set jack stands so the front wheels are just off the ground.

The first step in the process is to remove the power steering return line at the reservoir. Then I contacted a 5 foot hose to the return line with a short piece of pipe and place ( taped down with duct tape to prevent spilling any fluid ) the end of the hose in a oil drain bucket.

I had several quarts of new power steering fluid ready to add to the reservoir as the old fluid exited.

I had a friend crank the truck and turn the wheel side to side while I added new power steering fluid to the reservoir.

I continued to add new fluid until the discarded fluid ran clear. I used 7 quarts.

After the flush, the reservoir was filled with new fluid and the cap secured.

The used power steering fluid was taken to Advanced Auto Parts for recycling.

Does the truck run/perform better? No, but I have peace of mind that the power steering system is as good as it gets.

**BrooklynBay** · 02-22-2008, 10:01 AM

You could add an inline filter on the return line to help keep the fluid clean. Some in line cartridge filters even have built in magnets to trap metal particles from recirculating throughout the system.

Bmwz389 · 03-15-2008, 06:42 PM

You forgot to mention the return line being reconnected.

=P

*CDW6212R* · 03-15-2008, 09:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BrooklynBay

You could add an inline filter on the return line to help keep the fluid clean. Some in line cartridge filters even have built in magnets to trap metal particles from recirculating throughout the system.

That's a good idea also.

I've been using Valvoline semi-synthetic power steering fluid since the Mustang rack and pinion days. ATF kills many rack and pinion steering seals.

daves97sport · 03-15-2008, 11:03 PM

You also forgot to mention to plug the reservoir return nipple too (voice of experience as I saw my fluid going on the floor first time...).
I'm surprised you didn't use Amsoil ATF.
I've used it on my last couple vehicles with no issues.

aldive · 03-16-2008, 07:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by daves97sport

You also forgot to mention to plug the reservoir return nipple too (voice of experience as I saw my fluid going on the floor first time...).
I'm surprised you didn't use Amsoil ATF.
I've used it on my last couple vehicles with no issues.

The hose was plugged.

I do not want touse ATF and I wanted a full synthetic PS fluid is the reason.

*CDW6212R* · 03-16-2008, 02:13 PM

Al you see what I mean, it goes over people's heads that a power steering pump might be better off with power steering fluid. Regards,

aldive · 03-16-2008, 03:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CDW6212R

Al you see what I mean, it goes over people's heads that a power steering pump might be better off with power steering fluid. Regards,

Amazing, but true.

Maybe they are the same that feel dino oil is as good as synthetic.

shortstack · 03-16-2008, 03:36 PM

power stering fluid and ATF are the same (mercon)

http://www.explorerforum.com/ntrprize/spec1998.htm

*CDW6212R* · 03-16-2008, 04:38 PM

There is my point, way too many people are ruled by books. If it is written in a book, absolutely every other view must be wrong. Too much effort is wasted defending a book. Use some common sense more often, stop relying on a book.

shortstack · 03-16-2008, 04:53 PM

no i dont think you should allways go by the book. do you guys think its really worth the extra $3 a quart when the manufacturer say to use mercon ATF i mean with this application their the same thing

aldive · 03-16-2008, 05:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by shortstack

power stering fluid and ATF are the same (mercon)

That is simply not true.

aldive · 03-16-2008, 05:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by shortstack

no i dont think you should allways go by the book. do you guys think its really worth the extra $3 a quart when the manufacturer say to use mercon ATF i mean with this application their the same thing

Yes.

shortstack · 03-16-2008, 05:30 PM

any proof behind it or just opinion?

daves97sport · 03-16-2008, 08:42 PM

My Ford owners manual states to use Mercron ATF.
Your transmission is basically a hydraulic pump, as is your power steering unit...
Is it wrong to use what the factory calls out? I think not...
Is it better to use something that is called "power steering fluid"?
That is ones opinion...

**IZwack** · 03-16-2008, 08:58 PM

I would say that Mercon/MerconV is a bit better fluid for power steering because of the additives it has over regular power steering fluid. But yes, ATF can be used in the power steering system.

As daves97sport points out, the whole power steering system is just a glorified hydraulic system, like an automatic transmission is too.
Most industrial hydraulic systems in fact require ATF -- Monarch Hydraulics for example.

*CDW6212R* · 03-17-2008, 09:19 AM

It isn't about the pump, it is all about the rack and pinion unit. The early models all were susceptible to seal damage by ATF. Ford never recalled or paid for any of the damage, they have always recommended ATF for the PS system. It is a known fact that ATF will cause the rack and pinion units to begin leaking in the Fox chassis cars. The seals go, and when they go they leak a bunch, they go out fast. It didn't begin for many many years after they were sold, but it happens.

I take that as a clear sign that the OEM does not often acknowledge their mistakes. In fact they do their very best to ignore or deny problems that they should be responsible for. I believe I will be much safer in using power steering fluid in all power steering systems.

Quote:

Originally Posted by IZwack

I would say that Mercon/MerconV is a bit better fluid for power steering because of the additives it has over regular power steering fluid....

Power steering fluid is made for pwer steering systems. All ATF is made for automatic transmissions. It is much more likely that quality power steering fluid is better than any ATF for the PS system. Regards,

35Remmy · 03-17-2008, 10:17 PM

Hahahah, getting Ford OR GM, in my experience, to admit engineering f-up's is like pulling teeth. It's absolutely ridiculous that we have to fork out hard-earned cash for problems they are well-aware of. When you approach them with their well-known problem, they deny that "that" problem exists, which, in 99.0% of the time, is a flat-out LIE. I used to work at a Ford dealer. I'm still a Ford Fanatic, though! They DO build THE best truck on the market, hands down.

joefnh · 03-18-2008, 07:45 PM

Al our friends at Amsoil think their ATF is fine for your explorers PS pump.

I have heard that the synthetic PS fluid and synthetic ATF fluids are the same.

--Joe

99SportX · 03-18-2008, 09:18 PM

I use whatever Ford recommends. I believe that is Mercon. I would think that all issues with degrading seals have been resolved.

02-22-2008, 09:01 AM	#1
aldive Elite In Memoriam 1999 XLT Join Date: Jan 2001 Posts: 25,271 Vehicle Specs (Original Poster)	Power Steering Fluid Flush: 4.0 SOHC In the past I have always used the turkey baster method to replace power steering fluid. Yes, I always use synthetic power steering fluid, never ATF. I used Redline Synthetic Power Steering Fluid (http://www.redlineoil.com/products_c...ubCategoryID=5 ) I obtained it at Jegs for $8.99/quart ( http://www.jegs.com/webapp/wcs/store...y=OrderItemAdd ). Having never been satisfied with the previous method, I decided to perform a complete flush of the power steering system ( pump, reservoir, lines, cooler ). To begin the procedure, the truck was jacked up and set jack stands so the front wheels are just off the ground. The first step in the process is to remove the power steering return line at the reservoir. Then I contacted a 5 foot hose to the return line with a short piece of pipe and place ( taped down with duct tape to prevent spilling any fluid ) the end of the hose in a oil drain bucket. I had several quarts of new power steering fluid ready to add to the reservoir as the old fluid exited. I had a friend crank the truck and turn the wheel side to side while I added new power steering fluid to the reservoir. I continued to add new fluid until the discarded fluid ran clear. I used 7 quarts. After the flush, the reservoir was filled with new fluid and the cap secured. The used power steering fluid was taken to Advanced Auto Parts for recycling. Does the truck run/perform better? No, but I have peace of mind that the power steering system is as good as it gets. __________________ Al Franklin My truck My Quest for 30 RIP Al Franklin! 1947-2010. Gone but not forgotten! :( Last edited by aldive; 02-22-2008 at 09:14 AM.

02-22-2008, 10:01 AM	#2
BrooklynBay Aerostar Forum Moderator Brooklyn, NY 88 89 93 95 96 Aerostars Join Date: Nov 2005 Posts: 45,680 Vehicle Specs	You could add an inline filter on the return line to help keep the fluid clean. Some in line cartridge filters even have built in magnets to trap metal particles from recirculating throughout the system. __________________ My list of useful threads. My photo gallery. My product reviews. My list of items for sale. Aerostar owners thread. Aerostar parts work in Explorers, Rangers, and Bronco II thread. History of the Aerostar thread. Aerostar Forum. New Members Forum. Ford/Lincoln/Mercury Forum.

03-15-2008, 06:42 PM	#3
Bmwz389 Wannabe Elite Explorer Iowa 1992 XLT Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 283 Vehicle Specs	You forgot to mention the return line being reconnected. =P __________________ 1992 Explorer XLT with a sweet front end, and a badass sound system...

03-15-2008, 11:03 PM	#5
daves97sport Wannabe Elite Explorer Tarentum, PA '97 Sport 5spd 4.0 OHV Join Date: Oct 2004 Posts: 69 Vehicle Specs	You also forgot to mention to plug the reservoir return nipple too (voice of experience as I saw my fluid going on the floor first time...). I'm surprised you didn't use Amsoil ATF. I've used it on my last couple vehicles with no issues. __________________ '05 Escape Limited AWD 3.0 Auto, 2nd owner 125000+ mi. '97 Explorer Sport AWD 4.0 OHV 5Speed, 2nd owner 184000+mi. 19+MPG daily driving - Traded in... '92 FXRS-Conv. Low Rider, 2nd owner 48000+mi.

03-16-2008, 02:13 PM	#7
CDW6212R Elite Explorer Knoxville, TN 98 Mountaineer A4WD Join Date: Jun 2004 Posts: 12,940 Vehicle Specs	Al you see what I mean, it goes over people's heads that a power steering pump might be better off with power steering fluid. Regards, __________________ Don 91 Lincoln LSC/SE, 99/93 Explorer Limited 4WD, 98 AWD Mounty with 255/55/18's, big sway bars, and 12.75" x 1.25" rotors. Soon a BW4406, built trans, stereo and interior. The best thing that could help us all, is the Fair Tax Plan. Be American, Buy American (Manufacturer)

03-16-2008, 03:36 PM	#9
shortstack Wannabe Elite Explorer Alaska 1998 Eddie Bauer 4.0L Join Date: Jul 2007 Posts: 793 Vehicle Specs	power stering fluid and ATF are the same (mercon) http://www.explorerforum.com/ntrprize/spec1998.htm __________________ Oil Drain Plug Mod LED Parking Light Rack Homemade Heat Shield-Air Intake Vortex Muffler from Cherry Bomb, Video 3 Watt LED Puddle Lamps homemade 3 Watt LED Cargo Light homemade Last edited by shortstack; 03-16-2008 at 04:00 PM.

03-16-2008, 04:38 PM	#10
CDW6212R Elite Explorer Knoxville, TN 98 Mountaineer A4WD Join Date: Jun 2004 Posts: 12,940 Vehicle Specs	There is my point, way too many people are ruled by books. If it is written in a book, absolutely every other view must be wrong. Too much effort is wasted defending a book. Use some common sense more often, stop relying on a book. __________________ Don 91 Lincoln LSC/SE, 99/93 Explorer Limited 4WD, 98 AWD Mounty with 255/55/18's, big sway bars, and 12.75" x 1.25" rotors. Soon a BW4406, built trans, stereo and interior. The best thing that could help us all, is the Fair Tax Plan. Be American, Buy American (Manufacturer)

03-16-2008, 04:53 PM	#11
shortstack Wannabe Elite Explorer Alaska 1998 Eddie Bauer 4.0L Join Date: Jul 2007 Posts: 793 Vehicle Specs	no i dont think you should allways go by the book. do you guys think its really worth the extra $3 a quart when the manufacturer say to use mercon ATF i mean with this application their the same thing __________________ Oil Drain Plug Mod LED Parking Light Rack Homemade Heat Shield-Air Intake Vortex Muffler from Cherry Bomb, Video 3 Watt LED Puddle Lamps homemade 3 Watt LED Cargo Light homemade

03-16-2008, 05:30 PM	#14
shortstack Wannabe Elite Explorer Alaska 1998 Eddie Bauer 4.0L Join Date: Jul 2007 Posts: 793 Vehicle Specs	any proof behind it or just opinion? __________________ Oil Drain Plug Mod LED Parking Light Rack Homemade Heat Shield-Air Intake Vortex Muffler from Cherry Bomb, Video 3 Watt LED Puddle Lamps homemade 3 Watt LED Cargo Light homemade

03-16-2008, 08:42 PM	#15
daves97sport Wannabe Elite Explorer Tarentum, PA '97 Sport 5spd 4.0 OHV Join Date: Oct 2004 Posts: 69 Vehicle Specs	My Ford owners manual states to use Mercron ATF. Your transmission is basically a hydraulic pump, as is your power steering unit... Is it wrong to use what the factory calls out? I think not... Is it better to use something that is called "power steering fluid"? That is ones opinion... __________________ '05 Escape Limited AWD 3.0 Auto, 2nd owner 125000+ mi. '97 Explorer Sport AWD 4.0 OHV 5Speed, 2nd owner 184000+mi. 19+MPG daily driving - Traded in... '92 FXRS-Conv. Low Rider, 2nd owner 48000+mi.

03-16-2008, 08:58 PM	#16
IZwack Germantown, MD Join Date: Feb 2003 Posts: 22,390 Vehicle Specs	I would say that Mercon/MerconV is a bit better fluid for power steering because of the additives it has over regular power steering fluid. But yes, ATF can be used in the power steering system. As daves97sport points out, the whole power steering system is just a glorified hydraulic system, like an automatic transmission is too. Most industrial hydraulic systems in fact require ATF -- Monarch Hydraulics for example. __________________ »»»»»...how'd the moon get there, how'd the moon get there?

03-17-2008, 10:17 PM	#18
35Remmy Wannabe Elite Explorer Binghamton NY, Hazleton PA, Northern NJ '88,'99 Ranger, '00 EX Join Date: Mar 2008 Posts: 602 Vehicle Specs	Hahahah, getting Ford OR GM, in my experience, to admit engineering f-up's is like pulling teeth. It's absolutely ridiculous that we have to fork out hard-earned cash for problems they are well-aware of. When you approach them with their well-known problem, they deny that "that" problem exists, which, in 99.0% of the time, is a flat-out LIE. I used to work at a Ford dealer. I'm still a Ford Fanatic, though! They DO build THE best truck on the market, hands down.

03-18-2008, 07:45 PM	#19
joefnh Wannabe Elite Explorer New Hampshire 03 XLT Join Date: Apr 2005 Posts: 222 Vehicle Specs	Al our friends at Amsoil think their ATF is fine for your explorers PS pump. I have heard that the synthetic PS fluid and synthetic ATF fluids are the same. --Joe Attached Images

03-18-2008, 09:18 PM	#20
99SportX Wannabe Elite Explorer Duluth, MN '99 Sport Join Date: May 2003 Posts: 1,933 Vehicle Specs	I use whatever Ford recommends. I believe that is Mercon. I would think that all issues with degrading seals have been resolved. __________________ '99 Explorer Sport 5.0 AWD t-case with 2wd spindles (identity crisis) '99 Explorer XLT 4.0 SOHC 4x4 for daily driver/off road use