Power Steering Fluid

[cobrasvt]

Ok, maybe i'm just having a "senior moment" or i'm just not understanding correctly. Maybe one of you can clue me in on a few things.
I need to add power steering fluid to my resivor. I look in the manual and it says add Motorcraft MERCON ATF. Now I know Motorcraft is fords brand they want you to buy at the dealer but thats not what people really do.
Is Mercon a brand or a type of fluid?
Are you supposed to just by ATF?

I go to pepboys, autozone they have ATF but i dont see anything that says mercon on them. I go and look at power steering fluid and they all seem to just be additives for stopping leaks.

What am I supposed to buy?

 

[deadernie]

Mercron is the type of fluid and most of the major brands make it. It may also be labled as Dexron III/Mercron. You can also use the newer Ford standard Mercron V which is also made by several of the major brands.

 

[cobrasvt]

So either one of the following would be correct?
Does anyone know if the high mileage is worth it for use as the power steering fluid in this application?

CASTROL MERCON® V AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID IS CERTIFIED FOR USE IN FORD VEHICLES THAT REQUIRE MERCON® OR MERCON® V.
* Advanced formula exceeds MERCON® requirements
* Enhanced friction durability provides superior transmission life and promotes smooth shifting.
* Exceptional thermal protection guards against transmission wear.
* Certified and approved by Ford for all cars and trucks that require MERCON® or MERCON® V. May also be used in power steering applications where MERCON® or MERCON® V is required.
* Do not use this ATF in applications calling for MERCON® SP or Type F.

CASTROL HIGH MILEAGE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID IS FOR USE IN MOST TRANSMISSIONS WITH OVER 75,000 MILES.
* Specially formulated for maximum transmission life in high mileage vehicles
o Additional seal conditioners help stop leaks
o Extra cleaning agents reduce varnish and sludge formation
o Protects against clutch wear and restores smooth shifting
* Newer cars will also benefit from Castrol High Mileage ATF
# Can be used in many vehicles including those that require:
* Ford MERCON® V (and prior)
* Chrysler ATF+3® (and prior)
* GM 2005 models and prior (not for use where DEXRON®-VI is required)
* Honda - ATF-Z1
* Hyundai
* Nissan - Matic-D, Matic-J, Matic-K
* Toyota - Type T, T-III, T-IV

 

[windsors03cobra]

I would use the regular non high mileage blend, I would also use dexron 3 instead of 5 or power steering fluid. Hit up a quality NAPA for decent help finding and getting what you need.
I will say that Castrol Mercon 5 is good stuff.