WJACKSON11X
1/2 ton status
Getting ready to install hydro assist. I've heard of people using ATF instead of power steering fluid. Which one is better? Tried to search but came up with very little. Is hydraulic fluid an option? Thanks
CK5
Register an account today to become a member! Once signed in, you'll be able to participate on this site by adding your own topics and posts, as well as connect with other members.
Hydro Assist-ATF or power steering fluid?
- Thread starter WJACKSON11X
- Start date
I used ATF.
I've been using Dextron-3 ATF for 2+ years with no issues.
That said..... PSC says to only use a "high quality synthetic power steering fluid". As I understand it, ATF has too many cleaning agents and can cause the ATF to look/smell burnt quickly, wear out seals, and cause leaks.
That said..... PSC says to only use a "high quality synthetic power steering fluid". As I understand it, ATF has too many cleaning agents and can cause the ATF to look/smell burnt quickly, wear out seals, and cause leaks.
I use the GM power steering fluid from the dealer. Comes in a black bottle. But my hydro assist has never worked right, so I don't know.
I used hydraulic tractor fluid in a squeaky, leaky power steering pump once.It stopped squeaking and leaking. I never had an issue again.
My buddy that helped me set up my Hydro assist is an expert. He works on MCAS jets. He told me to use ATF.
My buddy that helped me set up my Hydro assist is an expert. He works on MCAS jets. He told me to use ATF.
WJACKSON11X
1/2 ton status
Well, not sure what to use. Everybody has different answers. Anybody else have any opinions on the subject? Thanks for everyone's input.
ATF, while spec'd by GM for power steering for a while, is not ideal. Actual power steering fluid is better, the price difference is negligible. The whole system holds say, 2 quarts or so? Even putting good power steering fluid in, you're probably in for $20-30 in fluid tops, I generally run Amsoil/Red-Line fluid in my two trucks but I've had good luck with the Walmart power steering fluid as well (it seems like it would be cheap crap but it's rebadged name-brand fluid, IIRC Quaker State for PS fluid).
I got some Royal Purple at an employee price. I figure it will run cooler and not foam. So far, no complaints.
bigS10blazer
Registered Member
I use BM trick shift and tranny fluid,, had a problem long time ago with the power steering fluid getting hot and boiling, ( steering box with hydro assist), had some trick shift on the trail , it instantly made it quit boiling and made it through the day
, put on new pump and ATF and BM trick shift, used it for 4 years trail riding and roclcrawling , never made noise and never boiled again,
, put on new pump and ATF and BM trick shift, used it for 4 years trail riding and roclcrawling , never made noise and never boiled again,
