question about fluids

[simple]

So I'm looking through my owners manual lastnight and I came across the section on what type of fluid to use if I need to add some to the power steering. It said to use power steering trim/tilt fluid or automatic transmission fluid. (dexron) I never heard of using tranny fluid for the power steering before. I don't get why someone would use this. You don't use tranny fluid in an automotive 4.3 engine, so why would I use it in a 4.3 I/O?

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: question about fluids

Its the same oil.Dextron or ATF.

 

[Bondo]

Re: question about fluids

Power Steering has Always used ATF.........<br /><br />ATF IS Hydraulic Oil......... It doesn't Matter what Color it is.........<br /><br />What Else would you use ????

 

[rodbolt]

Re: question about fluids

hello<br /> usually if its a GM pump it will call out for dexronIII or its equivalent. years ago there was also type A and type F and none would interchange. now most everything is dexron III.<br /> but only in the power steering resevoir not the engine oil.<br /> good luck and keep posting.

 

[Don S]

Re: question about fluids

You don't use tranny fluid in an automotive 4.3 engine, so why would I use it in a 4.3 I/O?<br />

I hope you aren't mixing up engine oil and power steering oil. The power steering fluid goes in a reservoir that normally looks something like this, and uses Dextron.<br /><br />

 

[simple]

Re: question about fluids

[/quote]I hope you aren't mixing up engine oil and power steering oil. The power steering fluid goes in a reservoir that normally looks something like this, and uses Dextron.[/QB][/quote]<br /><br />No, I'm not. So, could I use regular power steering fluid that's used in vehicles in my 4.3 I/O?

 

[Don S]

Re: question about fluids

could I use regular power steering fluid that's used in vehicles

?????????? What is "regular power steering fluid used in vehicles" <br /><br />And what is wrong with using what your owners manual suggests. Along the same lines, what are you running in your boat, Mercruiser, Volvo, OMC, and what year. All power steerings are not created equal ya know, plus there may be a special circumstance But without any informtion on specifics, all you are getting is general answers.

 

[simple]

Re: question about fluids

I'm referring to power steering fluid that is used in cars or trucks. Prestone, vavoline, etc.... I have a 1990 bayliner with a 4.3 mercruiser.

 

[Don S]

Re: question about fluids

I'll pass,<br />Far as I'm concerned, Prestone is antifreeze, valvoline is a specific manufacturer of oil, could be engine or ATF or other gear lubes.<br /><br />Hope you find what you are looking for.

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: question about fluids

Simple, not all PS fluids are created equal - honda for instance specify a special fluid for their PS but the vast majority of PS systems use dex3 (dexron 111), this is the newer version of dex2. <br /><br />Some of your quotes seem confusing - " So, could I use regular power steering fluid that's used in vehicles in my 4.3 I/O?" - no you can't. Regular PS fluid (dex3) is no good for your 4.3, its a hydraulic oil that is designed for the power steering & automatic transmissions and is sometimes recommended for manual transmissions. If you mean can it be used in your 4.3I/O power steering system then the answer is yes.<br /><br />Aldo

 

[TheOilDoc]

Re: question about fluids

Originally posted by simple:<br />I have a 1990 bayliner with a 4.3 mercruiser.

Mercruiser sells a power steering fluid that can be used in all Mercruiser power steering systems. It is also compatible with the ATF and 10W-30 oil previously used in some of the older systems. Not all hydraulic oils are the same. I would suggest using the Mercruiser steering fluid for your Mercruiser. It is inexpensive.

 

[Don S]

Re: question about fluids

Oildoc<br />You seem to be missing the point here.....The manufacturer knows nothing. The object of the game is to use something better and cheaper, or at least called something else and not supposed to be used for that purpose. Makes perfect sense to me..... <br />I have often considered the possibility of drinking a beer and using my bodies recycling system to produce a fluid that would be perfect for use in outdrives, engines, powersteering systems, and possibly brakes (Trailer brakes....this is a marine forum). It would be a byproduct of the original product and since it's free, it must be perfect...........<br />I do understand that Mercruiser may not specifically recommend recycled beer, but they didn't say specifically not to use it. So again, it must be a perfect substitute.

 

[qystan]

Re: question about fluids

Don the Rasp That's really rough.<br /><br />Looks like everyone is getting it from you lately. <br /><br />Simple, don't mind him, its the cold rolling in.

 

[imported_wildcat]

Re: question about fluids

Don is right on with the use of the right fluids. This forum has certainly straightened me out a number of times. I am sure glad people like Tommays, Crazy Charlie, DonS, Bondo, etc. keep an eye on this forum. Being a newbie, I now look like a professional at the dock compared to all the weekend "clueless" boaters, purely because of this forum. They now ask me for advice, and I gladly help because all of you have helped me so much. Thanks again.