95 Chevy power steering

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I am probably going to be replacing one of the lines when I find out where the leak is because I put uv dye in. When I'm done, is it ok that some of the dye remains in the system? Also might be changing the gearbox to get rid of the slop in the steering.

What fluid should I use? The ones I would pick from would be Valvoline Power Steering Fluid, Lubegard Complete Synthetic, or Royal Purple Max-EZ. Thanks.
 
Use the ST Dex/Merc ATF or any other cheap Dex/Merc Dexron III ATF
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I'd be apt to use real PSF in this one. I'td be nice to see the AW levels in each of those options in order to make a decision
 
The official fluid part number for your application is: GM fluid 1052884 which thankfully is covered by most generic power steering fluids you find at most automotive stores such as Prestone for example or you can safely use Dexeron ATF.

The dye remaining in the power steering fluid won't hurt it at all.
 
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Yup, past few times I did steering gearboxes in similar vehicles I used O'Reilly Dex/Merc ATF... But I care about this truck a little more than I should so I wanted something better.

I'm not gonna use Prestone PSF, I've read several bad things about it. The products I listed are my brand preference, it's just hard to find real data on the differences between them. The Valvoline is much cheaper so it's probably not synthetic, however much that matters for power steering on an old Chevy who knows...

Thanks for the reassurance the dye is system safe long-term.
 
The re-builders put out a list of PS fluids that meet the specs for most PS fluid standard type vehicles by brand names and almost brand is on there for this type of GM truck. I have not seen much difference in any of these type of fluids in GM's I think the big thing is to change it once in a while. We don't use atf in GM's like we do in fords and atf4 in chryslers etc.
 
Originally Posted by StevieC
The official fluid part number for your application is: GM fluid 1052884 which thankfully is covered by most generic power steering fluids you find at most automotive stores such as Prestone for example or you can safely use Dexeron ATF.

The dye remaining in the power steering fluid won't hurt it at all.


According to the back of the Valvoline bottle and the Lubegard website those two products both meet the GM spec. The RP doesn't mention that anywhere (typical of RP - providing detailed information on their website not their strong point) and is much more expensive than either of those, so I think I'll go with the Valvoline.
 
Just something to think about, and may or may not be applicable to your situation.

I replaced OEM power steering fluid in both my cars a few years ago. First was my Honda Ody which had a "stick" or slight catch when turning in one direction. New OEM fluid did not resolve, so I tried Prestone synthetic for Asian. Same result. I then tried Lucas "for ALL power steering systems." The steering completely smoothed out in a day or two, and the problem has not returned since. I then attacked my Cad which had a slight catch in both directions. I started with maxlife given that the car was about 9 y.o. at the time. Did nothing to fix the problem. I then switched to Lucas and the problem was gone in about a week, and has not returned since. I did have to replace the high pressure hose later due to a cut, but that was a different issue.

Now, I realize Lucas is a favorite target of nay-sayers around here, but I am sold on their PS fluid. And their interior cleaner is pretty darn good! Now, the Lucas fuel injector cleaner was less than impressive (the only one that seems to work in my cars is techron).

Edit: to the OP, as others have said, it's fine to leave some dye in the system. However, while you have it apart you might as well just flush the whole system with new fluid. Whether it needs a cleaner (e.g., srafoam trans tune) or not depends on your situation. If it does, it wouldn't hurt to add this beforehand.
 
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I have two older vehicles, '99 Trans Am and '08 Chevy Van both with Royal Purple Max EZ fluid working just fine. I talked with RP first since yes their website didn't answer all my questions. Their customer service admitted that the website could be better and is constantly updated. Can't remember the price but I shop for sales.
 
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Originally Posted by dogememe
Yup, past few times I did steering gearboxes in similar vehicles I used O'Reilly Dex/Merc ATF... But I care about this truck a little more than I should so I wanted something better.

I'm not gonna use Prestone PSF, I've read several bad things about it. The products I listed are my brand preference, it's just hard to find real data on the differences between them. The Valvoline is much cheaper so it's probably not synthetic, however much that matters for power steering on an old Chevy who knows...

Thanks for the reassurance the dye is system safe long-term.


I wasn't suggesting you use Prestone, just using it as an example that the generic PSF out there covers the spec for your vehicle. I would use ATF myself.
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Well glad you found your answer! On an unrelated note, I checked the PSF on my 93 rez truck. It was quite low and what was left was very dark and smelly. I am not sure where the fluid went. Maybe it is leaking, maybe the pump ate it or maybe it was sold for booze money. Not sure, don't care. I have 2 quarts of Amsoil LV ATF that has not found a home and decided to start using it as PS fluid. So far so good.
 
Originally Posted by dogememe
Thanks all. Valvoline Power Steering Fluid it is!


This is what I am currently using.. No complaints whatsoever and very cheap by the gallon. I refilled 2 PS systems complete.
 
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