what type of powersteering fluid to use

[Scottsu150]

I just wanted to make sure that my 04 needs regular mercon fluid for the power steering pump

 

[waskly]

mercon 5 its trans fluid and power steering

 

[Scottsu150]

thanks one book said mercon and one said mercon 5 and I know they are different, and that mixing them is bad

 

[corkey]

mercon is oil based, mercon v is synthetic, don't mix them,

 

[waskly]

thanks one book said mercon and one said mercon 5 and I know they are different, and that mixing them is bad

ford phased out mercon and atf, and ps fluid, all replacements fluid for ps/atf and mercon is mercon 5.

 

[mikemaj]

power steering fluid type and compatibility

I want to replace the power steering fluid in my 02 explorer. I bought this vehicle used so I don't know what was previously used but my book calls for Mercon ATF. If Mercon ATF is replaced by Mercon V, and that Mercon and Mercon V are not to be mixed together, what type should I use or do I have to identify what is in the power steering fluid reservoir before draining and re-adding? Thanks!