Fluid for power steering

[mas360]

What type of fluid do you guys use for your 7.3 ? What does Ford put in when they built the truck?

I am thinking of drawing out most of the old fluid and replace it with new fluid. I am not too sure what would be best to put in.

[NoRalPh]

First, don't use Anything but ATF.

Next, Flushing is preferred over just replacing some in the res.

Ever flushed your powersteering?

[7.3HeavyHauler]

I made that almost fatal error, I put power steering fluid in it, wasn't thinking about it being part of the brakes, but it did get flushed after I found out it was supposed to be ATF, I will say this about that flush, you should lift the front end off the ground, I had 2 holes in the ground from turning the front tires

[rufushusky]

Originally Posted by mas360

What type of fluid do you guys use for your 7.3 ? What does Ford put in when they built the truck?

I am thinking of drawing out most of the old fluid and replace it with new fluid. I am not too sure what would be best to put in.

Mercon ATF will do the job just fine. Some people spring for synthetic, I have conventional wally world ATF Dex/Merc in mine and it works well.

Here is a video, it is really easy to do.

How To: Power Steering Flush on 7.3L Powerstroke (HydroBoost) - YouTube

How To: Power Steering Flush on 7.3L Powerstroke (HydroBoost) - YouTube

[mas360]

Thanks guys. ATF it will be.

Rufushusky, thanks for the video. That really helps. I am a little confused when this guy says during the test drive that his brake improves with the steering fluid change. How does steering system have anything to do with brake system?

[NoRalPh]

They both derive their power from the PS pump. That fluid is piped to the hydraulic (as opposed to vacuum) brake booster.

[mas360]

Hey guys, I just did the flush with Walmart Merc/Dextron. The toughest part was to take the hose off the metal nozzle. I eventually had to cut the hose. Luckily it was long enough for me to re-attach it.

Again thanks you all for advices and especially the video.