power steering fluid
Logistics Pro
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 4,698
Likes: 47
From: Mexico, Missouri
My Ford manual states ATF Type F. I have heard that you can use Mercon in place of Type F if you are in a bind, but haven't ever done so myself.
I've replaced 2 power steering boxes and both of them are using Type F ATF.
I've replaced 2 power steering boxes and both of them are using Type F ATF.
Cargo Master
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 3,118
Likes: 149
From: South Dakota
I would stick with Type F automatic transmission fluid. There must have been some good reason Ford still specified Type F in the power steering systems when the transmissions went to Mercon.
Senior User
Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 348
Likes: 0
From: Vidalia onion,GA
I've heard a little brake fluid actually swells up the rubber and will fix some leaks. . idk how much truth there is to it. I replaced pump and pressure line and still leaks. Found out they sell p/s fluid just for my truck at oh reallys.haha it comes in a gallon jug
Postmaster
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 3,533
Likes: 17
From: SW Florida
What's leaking, the pressure line? If so, is it where it goes into the pressure regulator on the side of the pump?
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The Southernmost Mod
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 6,902
Likes: 20
From: Caracas, Venezuela
As said, any ATF is good, personally in Venezuela Ford recommended Dexron II ATF, so that's that.
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Mountain Pass
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 170
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Any ATF is fine, though Mercon/Dexron III is probably best. In the mid 90s, Ford changed from Type F to Mercon III in the PS. They didn't change the pump, or steering box. My guess is they kept recommending Type F because it was cheap and they had a big stock of it with no use. Type F does not have friction modifier additives needed for newer transmissions. I have been told that Type F has a tendency to oxidize though. When I changed out my old PS fluid, I used type F only because I had an old bottle lying around that needed to be used. Haven't had any problems. I would NOT put regular PS fluid in. It is too thick and could ruin the pump.
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Sport45
1980 - 1986 Bullnose F100, F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks
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Jan 10, 2007 10:43 PM