Installed RedHead Steering, Weird Braking

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Jan 11, 2014 | 09:16 PM

FreeDevin

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Tuned

Joined: May 2008

Posts: 282

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From: Pearl River, LA

Installed RedHead Steering, Weird Braking

Ok guys, so I just installed my RedHead steering box. Wow, what a difference! There is still some play in the steering wheel. However, I just took a short drive and noticed that the PS fluid is low and is bubbly, so I will top that off and let the bubbles get out.

Initially on the drive I noticed that the brake pedal was a little quirky. I assume this has something to do with the low PS fluid and bubbles since both systems are connected (why are they connected even though they are separate systems using different fluids?)

Also, I just realized that I orginally had Mercon V as PS Fluid and I used Dexron VI when I did the steering box install today. How screwed am I?

Jan 11, 2014 | 09:19 PM

Pikachu

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Joined: Jun 2004

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From: Amarillo, TEXAS!

The power steering pump runs the brake booster to provide power brakes, but it doesn't flow from the master cylinder to the calipers.

Jan 11, 2014 | 09:24 PM

FreeDevin

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Tuned

Joined: May 2008

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From: Pearl River, LA

Oh ok, gotcha. I will read up more on that when I get a chance so that I better understand the system.

Jan 11, 2014 | 10:17 PM

FreeDevin

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Tuned

Joined: May 2008

Posts: 282

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From: Pearl River, LA

My chief concern is the Dexron and Mercon being mixed. Is my truck going to blow up?!?

Jan 11, 2014 | 10:25 PM

Pikachu

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Joined: Jun 2004

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From: Amarillo, TEXAS!

No, I don't think it'll cause a problem. I've used all sorts of different fluids in my P/S without any issues.

Jan 11, 2014 | 11:19 PM

HKusp

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Joined: Jun 2007

Posts: 7,760

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From: Hampton, Maryland.

Just don't put power steering fluid in the power steering reservoir. Put ATF in. I switched to Mobil 1 a few years back and it helped the power steering noise quite a bit.