Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General General What brand of PS fluid to use?

Can someone recommend a good brand of Power Steering Fluid for use in the SVT.
How's the Valvoline Syn PS fluid? I've heard some people actually using synthetic ATF fluids in the PS... is this okay?

Mercon (forgot which number, I think it's 3 or 4) Automatic Transmission Fluid, that's what you should use.

So it is okay to use Automatic Transmission Fluid in the Power Steering as long as it's Mercon? Correct?

Mobil 1 ATF

I like the valvoline synpower fluids. I use the brake fluid in the MPV and the Buick.

Will use the PS fluid when I change out the fluid in the SVT.

May use that as a brake fluid, or go to an even higher heat rated fluid for the SVT this spring.

TB

My owner's manual specifies ATF that meets Ford's Mercon spec. All fluids as far as I know that meet Mercon spec also meet GM's Dexron spec. Dexron is up to Dexron III, but Mercon is still Mercon. The exception is that there is also a Mercon V and Ford says it is not interchangable with Mercon and Mercon V should not be used where Mercon is specified. Personally, I don't agree, as Mercon V is essentually a semi synthetic Mercon.

As for myself, I use Mobil 1 ATF in my power steering which meets Ford's Mercon spec (it probably also meets and exceeds Mercon V spec as well).

In the industry there is a movement toward synthetic power steering fluid that is dedicated to power steering and not suitable for automatic transmission use. The Valvoline Synpower Power Steering Fluid is similar to what many automakers are using now as factory fill. I'm sure that it would work well in your car. As for me, I have chosen to use a synthetic that still meets Mercon spec.

Anti-foam agents, higher thermal protection, higher hydraulic load, etc...

I've used Mobil 1 ATF in my P/S for many years...

My 1996 Contour SE owner's manual says to use Ford type F fluid, not Mercon/Dexron. I am contemplating a drain and refill of the system with Mobil 1 ATF with the Lubegard additive.
Also, I don't believe all Mercon V ATFs are semi-synthetic, like the Havoline version for example.

here's another 'vote' for valvoline synpower products....use the brake fluid and the oil but now i use valvoline oil for engines with 75,000 + miles...forgot what its called....yesteerday tho my power steering pump starting sqealing (first time since i've had the car) so i was forced to used the walmart special as thats where i was heading when it went dry

Just want to clarify. Mercon is not a brand, it's a standard (or spec).