[diesel_mercedes] Re : Replacing Power Steering Fluid and Filter

 


Mercedes fluid is best .

In use ATF because it takes several flushes to properly clean the system out the first time.

I use the pump to self flush , it pumps _really_ fast & I don't like allowing the pump to run dry .

I set up a drain jug and pour in a fresh gallon of ATF as the engine idles , let that go through then stop the engine when the pump runs dry , wipe clean the whole resivoir using only LINT FREE toweling (think good quality blue windshield towels) then I insert the new filter and re fill the resivoir and run it , turn the wheels full lock left to right a few times to bleed out the system and then I test drive it to warm up the fluid , it'll expand about 10 % so never top it off until it's fully warm .

Then I wind up changing the fluid several more times over the next few months , every time I check it and it smells burnt or gets dark colored , I change it again until it remains red & sweet smelling for over a month .

If you can get a helper , get two or tree gallons of discount ATF and jack up the front wheels , set up the catch basins and have at it , as soon as the engine starts , have your helper repeatedly turn the steering full lock to lock left , right and back again , keep this up until you're out of the three gallons you poured in or the fluid gushing out , turns red (it usually won't , if it does go buy Lotto tickets)
 
This is a time consuming , messy , PIA job but well worth it when you consider the pump costs $1,000 and ATF is only $5 / quart . once done , remember to replace the fulid annually just like you do the tranny , no need for mondo flushing once you've done it right , just a routine prophylactic fluid change .

I think synthetic ATF is wise but not imperative .

I hope this helps ? .

-Nate
      Lawrence  wrote:

 

I did get a quart of Mercedes power steering fluid.  Specified for the W123.  Is
this just pissing money down the hole?  8 bucks a quart.  Also is the procedure
correct?  I like the idea of using the pump to clean itself.  Should I change
the filter before or after flushing the system.  What kind of contamination
happens when changing the filter?  I'm going to use synthetic ATF.  Lawrence
Rhodes.......


 

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