Power Steering Leak

[John L. Mickevich]

My power steering fluid has been leaking and needs refilling. Can I use the generic type of fluid from the local parts store or should I stick with what's
recommended in the manual. The generic says it's compatible with Ford
systems. Also, the line coming out of the p.s. cooler looks wet from what I
can see thru the engine bay. If the line had to be replaced, what would
something like that cost?

Thanx,
John

 

[Yamaha V6]

John, I just replaced the 2 lines from the rack (& the rack) on my 91 last week. Autozone had the 2 hoses for ~$30 each, one running from the pump to the rack, and the other from the rack to the front cooler.

 

[John L. Mickevich]

Thanks Fred, about how long would it take to do? Also, do you know if the
generic p.s. fluids are ok to use in our cars versus the Ford specified fluids,
at least temporarily, since the nearest Ford dealer is a distance away from
me?

John

 

[Ace]

actaully John you should use ATF....it will work just fine...if its just the hoses at the cooler that are leaking it shouldnt be too bad to do...they are just return lines and have hardly any pressure...plus you can buy p/s line in bulk so its pretty cheap

 

[John L. Mickevich]

Ok, I have some dexron mercon III atf fluid in the sho's trunk. I'll use that.
Thanks for the suggestion Ace.

John

 

[Yamaha V6]

It's tight working in there, but if you're only replacing the hoses, not so bad. A little time consuming but not hard if you have the patience. I did the rack & hoses on my 91 in an evening on jack stands at home.