Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Duratec Maintenance A few questions about power steering fluid

This is my first post as a registered user, so I apologize if this is boring. I've been visiting this site almost daily for about a year now, and the maintenance tips I have found have almost entirely weaned me from the necessity of going to the dealership for basic stuff

A few questions...

1) The owner's manual for my '98 SE (V-6, ATX, 60000 miles) list MERCON power steering fluid, but my Haynes manual list Type F automatic transmission fluid. I am wanting to flush the original fluid out but do not know what to replace it with. From what I can tell, the original fluid is a darkening shade of red (AT fluid?), but new PS fluid appears to be clear with just a shade of yellow in it. Which one is correct?

2) I've done a search, but have not really found what I am looking for. I am wanting to flush and refill the PS fluid. I have seen the "turkey baster" method and others have suggested going somewhere to have it done. Is there a way for a DIY-guy to flush out the entire system? A couple of weeks ago, while I was changing the oil, I noticed a small cooler in front of the radiator and followed the lines and determined this was a PS fluid cooler (right?). Is it possible to detach one or both of these lines to drain the system or am I asking for trouble. My only concern is that air will get trapped in the rack-n-pinion when I refill. I understand the concept of 'bleeding' the PS... and if I do refill, what's the capacity?

Any tips would be greatly appreciated. The guys and girls on this forum have been a Godsend. Thank You.

Here ya go these are directions I created....

By the way you have to use Automatic Transmission Fluid Tpye "F" it is very important you get the correct fluid and use it otherwise you will most likely damage parts of your steering system.



Tools you need

- needle nose pliers/vice grip
- drain pan
- 5/8 hose clamp, screw type works best
- 3 quarts of Automatic Transmission Fluid type "F"
- duct tape
- funnel
- trash bag
- friend to help you
- towels
- Phillips screwdriver
Okay the first thing you need to do is set the drainpan under the car, you should set it about where the resivor is, then put the trash bag on the side of the car to prevent fluid from getting on your car. Secondly you need to remove the power steering resiovor cap. Using the vise grip pliers brake away the clamp that is attached to the power steering hose that runs parallel to the firewall, just go ahead and get the clamp off anyway possible. When you get the clamp off, you need to take the needle nose pliers, and force off the hose. When it comes off cover the white end from the resiovior where it came off with the duct tape.

Now set the funnel in the resiovor. Have your friend start the car but tell him not to turn the wheel, fluid will be draining out of it. After 20 seconds or so, have them shut it off. Okay get the fluid ready, have them start the car and turn the wheel gently, as they are doing this old fluid will be coming out of the hose so you need to pour new fluid in fast. If at any time you hear a groaning sound have them shut the car immediately, you wernt pouring fluid fast enough. With it off fill to the max line, then have them restart. You need it so they can turn the wheel to the left and right all the way without having any groaning sound. When they can do that, reconnect the hose, but first slide the clamp on it. Now tighten the clamp tight. Fill the resiovor a bit above the max, as it might drop a bit, mine did.
Keep an eye on the fluid for day or two.

Mobil 1 ATF & a complete system flush

How much fluid does the P/S system take?
How much is needed to flush?

Type F fluid was specified in 95. Mercon after that. Mercon works just fine even in a 95.

Mobil 1 ATF is a fully synthetic Mercon spec fluid and also works fine.

Valvoline Synpower power steering fluid is specifically a power steering fluid and not a trans fluid that also works in power steering systems. It works fine as well.

Obviously you didnt read my first post to good.

" 3 quarts of Automatic Transmission Fluid type "F"" it says that in the parts list.

Thanks, Big Jim

I'm sorry that my experience is different from yours.



I just love these coy statements.......Big Jim did you pick that up at the office???


Regards,
Bob

Type F fluid, is an obsolete ATF and is more slippery than Mercon/Dexron. It has no friction modifiers that give Mercon more "bite" to the clutches.
Since the later Contours use Mercon I would say you would not have any problems in your car.
I use Synpower PS fluid in my 96 which requires type F and have seen no ill effects.
I also use Lubeguard PS fuid additive, which is purported to be quite good - look at their website to find more info.