I recently replaced all of my power steering hoses. After the replacement I added new fluid and went throught the top off/bleed procedure in the service manual. The steering worked perfectly when the car was first started and initially driven. However, after approximately 30 minutes of driving the steering became extremely stiff at parking lot and standstill speeds. This would also be the case if the car was sitting for less than an hour or two after extended driving. However, if the car had completely cooled off or was only driven a short way, power steering was effortless again. I initially assumed that I had some residual air in the system that was only coming to a location to cause problems after a period of driving.

Needless to say, I bled the system on numerous occassions with no positive results. I noticed, though, that when the car was cold the fluid would bleed out clear of any air. However, when the car was hot, the fluid came out almost frothy. I had initially used Dexron III ATF fluid and was concerned that the fluid might not be handling the load correctly. So, I switched to BG power steering fluid. That made things marginally better, but the issue still exists.

I noticed in other posts that Valvoline synthetic power steering fluid with Lucas additive was reccommended. Does it sound as if my problem could be fluid related and I would benefit from switching to the Valvoline? The only other thought I had was a bad bleed valve on the steering box leaking air.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Ed

 

cannot post!!!!!!!! again!!!!!

 

Either can I.

 

Afraid I don't understand the responses. I'm assuming you mean the answer to this has been posted repeatedly and you're expressing frustration with me for asking the question again.

However, I did a search before posting and found numerous discussions of power steering fluid, but none that mentioned this specific issue, it's potential cause or possible relation to fluid or other causes. Perhaps I didn't communicate the problem effectively or simply didn't know the right search terms to pursue. If there is a link or thread I missed,I'd appreciate if someone couldpoint me in that direction.

I apologize for wasting your time.

 

Its not you. Its the forum being stupid again.

 

There is no such thing as a stupid question. Only stupid froum servers.

 

You must only use Dexron.

 

You may have dislodged some gunk. Flush again and refill with Dexron.

 

I'm assuming then, that the Valvoline Synthetic Power Steering fluid recommended by Mike in previous posts is for other year LR's. Would the Lucas additive still benefit me or should that only be used in conjunction with power steering fluid and not ATF fluid? Lastly, do you have a recommendation on an ATF fluid?

Thanks for the help.

 

Power steering fluid is for DII's and ATF is for the power steering in DI's. I dont know why, thats just the way it is. Just buy a name brand full synthetic Dexron III, flush the system again and call it good. If you still have problems after a week take it in. Or live with it until it fails completly.