Hi Guys,

Just did the research about how to change my Power Steering fluid. (symptoms: intermittent noise at slow speeds, hard steering at times)

I'm posting this for 2 reasons: To ask a question I have, and to summarize several posts on this matter for future searches.

How to change:

1) Use something like a quart oil pump to suck the fluid out of the pump. (looks like a big eye dropper)
or
2) Disconnect hoses from steering rack, let drain. Many find this a concern - it may introduce leaks in the future, though it is certainly more efficient than #1.

Use Dextron III (pronounced Dextron three) fluid. All posts indicate that this is actually automatic transmission fluid. You will need 0.4 quarts to fill the pump.

My Question:

Some posts/websites say leave engine off when turning the wheel with depleted levels of power steering fluid (applies to final removal & to final fills).

Others say start engine when you make those 3 or 4 lock to lock turns to deplete the fluid on removal, or to remove air bubbles on final fill.

I was taught by a mechanic that since the fluid by its nature is going to cling to the power steering assembly, it would take lengthy periods of time without fluid to case damage.

Is there a correct or reasonably cautious answer to this question:

Should I leave the engine off for the lock to lock purge process or not?

Thanks,

John

 

This seems reasonable:

how-to-change-power-steering-fluid