flyingd

I would like to put in synthetic fluid for the power steering. As I understand I can use Transmission oil; is that correct? Also which one?

Thanks

deere country

I use power steering fluid as that's what it calls for. I use to use atf in the 70s and 80s ford trucks I use to drive. What's the allure to using a synthetic in your power steering system?

Desert5600

TSB for BR models says power steering fluid.

TSB 19-005-03

flyingd

The allure to using synthetic is that in the winter, when it is in the 20's and below, the power steering does not get bound up and not work till it is warmed up

gorms

Synthetic fluid does work well in sub freezing conditions, I used Lucas brand with good luck. Have also used atf with no problems, currently using valvoline tractor fluid. We'll see how that works in the cold. Over 280k on stock pump and hydro boost, on 2nd steering box.

johnh

the winter temps in my area are well below freezing!i have used what the book calls for and never had the problems you describe going on 300,000 miles!!!!

Desert5600

When I had an older C4 Corvette it was common to use synthetic power steering fluid for auto crossing to keep the fluid from boiling/overheating. Cold weather really isn't an issue.

I used Valvoline SynPower, BTW, but that shouldn't be necessary in a Cummins.

gorms

I always had problems with regular fluid when temps got down to 10 or less fahrenheit, unless the fluid was brand new. Was just noisy vibration through the steering wheel and brake pedal like it was pumping air, for a good 10-15 minutes. Problem went away with synthetic fluid, also had good luck for 2 winters on atf. I usually change it every 2 years, or 20-30k miles. Coldest we see is -10 or so. Average of single digits at night though.