I have a Dodge that uses ATF+4 for the power steering. I've noticed that when it is really cold, the power steering pump makes some noise like it is fighting the super cold +4 in the system. I understand that the Dex VI is a lower viscosity fluid, and I was thinking it may do better in the bitter cold than the +4. Would this be OK to use? Or would I be opening IP problems?
OK to use Dex VI in place of ATF+4 P/S?
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I think you have the right idea. Mine gets a bit noisy when it gets real cold. I replaced my reservoir per advice from a Chrysler minivan site and it did get better for awhile. Some reservoirs have a fine mesh filter built in that can clog and seems to impede flow of the fluid in the cold. I think the Dex VI might be just what it needs. I may have to try that myself.
It should be fine, power steering systems aren't depending on specific coefficient of frictions like the transmission, it's basically acting as a hydraulic fluid in the ps system.
If you want something with good cold flow properties try Mobil 1 ATF or Maxlife ATF.
If you want something with good cold flow properties try Mobil 1 ATF or Maxlife ATF.
Originally Posted By: 901Memphis
It should be fine, power steering systems aren't depending on specific coefficient of frictions like the transmission, it's basically acting as a hydraulic fluid in the ps system.
If you want something with good cold flow properties try Mobil 1 ATF or Maxlife ATF.
+1 on both counts.
A good synthetic ATF will help quite a bit. I'm using Mag1 synthetic atf in one vehicle's AT and two PS systems now, and it's quite good, too. if the vehicle is older, another thing I've done to quieten/clean the systems is add some SeaFoam for a day's worth of driving before changing the fluid.
here's a simple way to pump out the system instead of just partially filling via suction or pumping the reservoir:
http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/107-ca...ice-needed.html
It should be fine, power steering systems aren't depending on specific coefficient of frictions like the transmission, it's basically acting as a hydraulic fluid in the ps system.
If you want something with good cold flow properties try Mobil 1 ATF or Maxlife ATF.
+1 on both counts.
A good synthetic ATF will help quite a bit. I'm using Mag1 synthetic atf in one vehicle's AT and two PS systems now, and it's quite good, too. if the vehicle is older, another thing I've done to quieten/clean the systems is add some SeaFoam for a day's worth of driving before changing the fluid.
here's a simple way to pump out the system instead of just partially filling via suction or pumping the reservoir:
http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/107-ca...ice-needed.html
Originally Posted By: Johnny248
I have a Dodge that uses ATF+4 for the power steering. I've noticed that when it is really cold, the power steering pump makes some noise like it is fighting the super cold +4 in the system. I understand that the Dex VI is a lower viscosity fluid, and I was thinking it may do better in the bitter cold than the +4. Would this be OK to use? Or would I be opening IP problems?
Use what is recommended. ATF 4 is a synthetic and should be fine. You might have some air in the system or the pump is hurting a little. The factory fill was likely some earlier version of ATF and it likely worked fine then. I have ATF4 in my system and it is quiet. I would leave it alone unless you are losing power assist.
I have a Dodge that uses ATF+4 for the power steering. I've noticed that when it is really cold, the power steering pump makes some noise like it is fighting the super cold +4 in the system. I understand that the Dex VI is a lower viscosity fluid, and I was thinking it may do better in the bitter cold than the +4. Would this be OK to use? Or would I be opening IP problems?
Use what is recommended. ATF 4 is a synthetic and should be fine. You might have some air in the system or the pump is hurting a little. The factory fill was likely some earlier version of ATF and it likely worked fine then. I have ATF4 in my system and it is quiet. I would leave it alone unless you are losing power assist.
here's a simple way to pump out the system instead of just partially filling via suction or pumping the reservoir:
http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/107-ca...ice-needed.html
I used this method to replace the PSF in our 2002 Toyota Tundra. Very easy to do. I used Maxlife ATF as a replacement and all was good.
http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/107-ca...ice-needed.html
I used this method to replace the PSF in our 2002 Toyota Tundra. Very easy to do. I used Maxlife ATF as a replacement and all was good.
As far as low temperature is concerned they are not that different. ATF +4 is measured as 9,980 cP @ -40C DEXRON-VI is measured as 11,500 cP at the same temperature. Not different in terms of test repeatability.
If you want something better, that is readily available, you could take a look at Pentosin CHF 202. That is measured as 1,354 cP @ -40C.
A further point in response to some of the previous comments is that ATF +4 is HC (check the spec) and the majority of DEXRON-VI fluids are also Group III.
If you want something better, that is readily available, you could take a look at Pentosin CHF 202. That is measured as 1,354 cP @ -40C.
A further point in response to some of the previous comments is that ATF +4 is HC (check the spec) and the majority of DEXRON-VI fluids are also Group III.
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I suctioned out both my vehicles and put in Amsoil multi vehicle ATF. Not the low viscosity stuff. I did several suction and refills. All but took away the whine on a cold morning for both. Usually below -25c ambient will it make a bit of noise for a few seconds. Have had it in for a over 2 years now. Works great!
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