Powering Steering Fluid VS. ATF
 

Last summer, I installed a CarQuest rebuilt power steering pump on my '92 F150. It is the C-11 pump. My Ford manual says to use a Premium Power Steering Fluid E6AZ-19582-AA (ESW-M2C33-F) or equilvalent on the C-11 pump. I flushed and refilled with CarQuest Type FA automatic transmission fluid per my local Carquest dealer's recommendation. On the back of the CarQuest Type FA ATF bottle, it states that this fluid meets Ford specification (M2C33-F) and therefore I believe this is why the CarQuest dealer recommended this fluid. The pump works fine and is not noisy at all. Am I in error in using this ATF fluid in my power steerring pump? Is there a difference between a power steering fluid that meets spec (M2C33-F) and an ATF fluid that also meets (M2C33-F)? Thanks, Charles

lol ive been running dex III for 5 years or so...ever since the ford dealer told me it was ok, and ive never ever had a ps pump take a dump on me

ATF will be fine in your power steering pump. Auto transmissions and power steering pumps are both hydraulic pumps. The reason for specifics in ATF for trannys is because of all the other goodies inside the case besides the pump like bands, clutches, diaphrams, seals and gaskets. Some of these will deteriate if the wrong type of ATF is used. The power steering pump has a couple of seals and hydraulic hoses and a gearbox. All components of these systems are pretty much bullet proof with minor maintenance. That is why most agricultural eguipment rely on hydraulics. Any type of hydraulic oil will sufice in the steering pumps.

Thanks for the replys. I'll just stick with the Type FA then. Charles

I'm getting ready to redo the steering system in my 79. new pump, hoses, gearbox and filter. the old system had ATF in it and it lasted 25 years (well the pump was only 13 years old).

I will probably use ATF in the new system