Sorry to trouble you guys with a trivial question but could someone please confirm what fluid is used for the power steering.
The handbook states GM part number 1050017 but I'll have difficulty obtaining this in the UK. Is it just Dexron 1 or 2.
I remember my Audi used to use a special fluid called Pentosin and to use ATF caused incorrect pressures, seals blowing etc I dont want that to happen.
The reason I am asking is because my lower radiator hose started leaking which was caused by a leaking high pressure steering hose leaking, what!
A small amount of steering fluid was leaking and getting onto the crankshaft pulley which inturn flung the fluid onto the coolant hose and as it was made of silicone it dissolved it!
I changed the coolant hose and thought the steering hose was leaking as the fluid level was rather high. After correcting this though the hose is still leaking. It is leaking where the rubber hose is crimped (at both ends!
I'll order a new hose tommorrow and catch as much fluid as I can but I think I'll need more to bring it to the correct level.
Thanks in advance

Simon Holtby

88 Camaro 5.7 TPI

 

Dexron I, II, (neither are available any more) or III will work fine. It's just a hydraulic oil.

Some big trucks use engine oil for power steering fluid but unless they specify a specific type of oil other than "power steering fluid" just use dexron in automotive power steering.

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Stephen's racing page

87 IROC-Z Pro ET Bracket Race Car
383 stroker (carbed) with double hump cast iron heads and pump gas
454 Big Block buildup now in progress for the 2001 racing season

Best results before the 383 blew up
Best ET on a time slip: 11.857 altitude corrected to 11.163
Best MPH on a time slip: 117.87 altitude corrected to 126.10
Best 60 foot: 1.662

Racing at 3500 feet elevation but most race days it's over 5000 feet density altitude!
Member of the Calgary Drag Racing Association

87 IROC bracket car
91 454SS daily driver
95 Homebuilt Harley

 

It should use regular power steering fluid.

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'89 Formula 383 TPI

 

DON'T use dextron in your power steering!!! This used to be ok, but now they use a different type of rubber hose for the power steering, and dextron will slowly eat away this rubber and cause a leak. You need to buy regular everyday power steering fluid and thats it. PS, don't buy the stuff made for Honda's either. Its different too.

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Rob
'86 TA 305 TPI

 

Thanks for replies so far but your answers are rather conflicting.
Dexron 1,2 and 3 are all easily available in the UK.
I am confused by the reply to just use standard power steering fluid I have not seen this. Most cars here use Dexron in the power steering.

Simon

 

I changed the steering hose tonight and managed to catch enough fluid to refill her.
Hopefully I wont need any fluid for some time now.
Thanks

Simon

 

Dexron (or Type 'A' automatic transmission fluid) was always used in power steering as long as I can remember. The "proper" stuff nowadays is probably a bit better. Most containers of Dexron say that it can be used to replenish power steering fluid, so I wouldn't worry. I've never used anything else.