PS sticking issue

[ozzx2]

I've got a 99' ZX2 with power steering that's stiff at center. I use trans fluid as suggested in the manual. I flush the steering pump system every 6 months or so. The fluid looks like a cappucino which can be a sign of low fluid/foaming. It's never ran low on fluid and no water contamination that i know of. The steering improves, then i need to flush it in another 6 months. It is considerably worse when it's cold.

I'm going to try power steering fluid next. It's almost the same, correct? Anyone have any other suggestions on what may be causing this?

Thanks.

[mechtech]

What are you using for fluid?
Dexron /Mercon ATF is wht should be in there.
It shouldn't be getting that filthy if you flush it every 6 months properly. Do it again and let us know.

[iceracer]

Um, transmission fluid ? That brings up the question. There are all kinds of transmission fluids.
After 58K miles mine is just as red as new. Never been flushed or changed.

[ozzx2]

The issues started around 30k miles.

I used Dexron III/Mercon ATF the first few times, then the last time i used Mercon V. I also used Seafoam trans/power steering cleaner, which happened to be the same time as the high pressure fitting blew on the ps pump.


I'll try this next time by pulling the fuel pump relay, but these are basically the steps i followed:

From a Ford Taurus Service Manual

http://autorepair.about.com/library/a/1i/bl672i.htm

WARNING: Do not mix off types. Any mixture or any unapproved oil could lead to seal. deterioration and leaks. A leak could ultimately cause loss of fluid, which could result in a loss of power steering assist.

1. Remove the fuse pump relay located in the battery junction box to disable the vehicle from starting.
2. Disconnect the power steering return hose.
3. Compress and move the hose clamp.
4. Disconnect the power steering return hose and plug the fitting into the reservoir.
5. Attach an extension hose between the power steering hose and an empty container.
6. Raise the front wheels off the floor.
7. Fill the power steering reservoir.
8. CAUTION: Do not operate the starter motor for more than 10 seconds at a time. Damage to the starter motor could result.
9. Turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop while cranking the engine. Refill the power steering pump as necessary until the fluid exiting the extension hose is clear.
10. Lower the vehicle.
11. Remove the extension hose and connect the power steering return hose to the power steering pump reservoir.
12. Remove the plug and connect the power steering return hose.
13. Compress and move the clamp into place.
14. CAUTION: Do not overfill the power steering fluid reservoir.
15. Fill the power steering fluid reservoir to the appropriate level.
16. Install the fuel pump relay.
17. CAUTION: Do not hold at the stop for more than five seconds; damage to the pump can occur.
18. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop.
19. NOTE: If power steering is noisy and accompanied by evidence of aerated fluid, it will be necessary to purge the power steering system. Check the power steering fluid level.
20. Clear the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
* Run the vehicle and check the system for leaks.

[mechtech]

If you have particulate matter or heavy filth, a flush is best.
But it is a LOT easier to simply turkey baster out the reservoir, and then refill it.
Start the car and repeat the procedure a few times.

[ozzx2]

I tired that a few times. I wanted a permanent fix and total flush lasts longer.

[mechtech]

It is not normally recommended, but an ounce or two of STP added to the ATF in you pump may help [after your flush].
I repeat, this is only for unusual circumstances, but I've seen it fix noisy pumps and get a few extra years out of them. Many customers have no money.

[ozzx2]

Thanks. I'll try the STP as a last resort. I'm going to flush it one more time this weekend and see what happens.

When you said STP, you mean the gas treatment, right?

If i do a total flush, will there be any issues/benefits if i use power steering fluid instead of transmission fluid? From what i can tell, it's almost identical since both are hydraulic fluid

Thanks.

[mechtech]

No! NOT the gas treatment!
The OIL treatment!
But you could use anybody's super thick oil additive. Just a little.
There is very little difference in ATF and PS fluid. There are some minor additive differences. Honda's need their own PS fluid, though.