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.
