Power Steering Fluid Confusion!

[C@lvin]

I need to top off my power steering fluid (2000 V70 100K mi.)

The manual says use ATF. Isn't that automatic transmission fluid? If so, there are so many types - how do you know which type to use to insure it's compatible with what's already in there and what's good for the steering system?

At Wal-Mart there are a couple of brands of Power Steering Fluid (Prestone for example). Is that compatible? Or should I use "real" ATF?

Thanks in advance.

[tjts1]

Use ATF (automatic transmission fluid) in the power steering. DO NOT use any fluid market "power steering fluid". I know that sounds backwards but thats just the way our cars are designed. Any dextron ATF will work. Don't use anything market "type F". Synthetic is always preferable but not necessary.
good luck

[MadeInJapan]

The ATF you want is Dexron III

[chuckcintron]

You guys are going to shake your heads at this but...

ATF and ps fluid are pretty similar. I agree they should not be mixed...BUT...

On my car about a year ago I had some seepage around the steering rack boot on one side. So I buy a small container of PS fluid with "magic" additives in it to "condition seals" and "fix leaks". I figured I was headed for a rack replacement anyway, so what the heck.

I mixed it in with the ATF and since then haven't lost a drop of fluid level, no more seeping at the rack...and it hasn't turned into glue either.

I'd never recommend this but it did work for me.

-Chuck

[C@lvin]

I went ahead and added Dextron III with no additives.

I have not noticed a leak anywhere, but the level was just below the bottom of the dipstick.

Chuck, do you remember what kind of "magic" stuff you added? The brand or name?

Thanks.

[chuckcintron]

Found it among the disaster that is my garage:

"Prestone Power Steering Fluid + Stop Leak (with conditioners!)"

Like I said...I do *not* recommend anyone use this stuff. Why it seems to have worked for me, I don't know. I put maybe two ounces in.

-Chuck