Since Valvoline discontinued the SynTech line, I've searched my local stores looking for a replacement synthetic power steering fluid that'll help with cold weather issues to no avail. Chrysler does not recommend atf so I'm thinking Mobile 1 engine oil in either 0w20 or 5w30.

Anyone tried either?

 

Orillys carries Royal Purple power steering fluid, but you have to ask for it. They may even have to order it, but they can do it. $4.69 a pint, but good stuff.

 

The O'Reilly's near me does not carry Royal Purple, but NAPA does. The NAPA near me does not keep it on the shelf (they keep it in the back). You have to ask for it.

 

The local Napa near me carries Royal Purple PS fluid on the shelf. The local Pep Boys carries it also.

 

I haven't been able to find synthetic blends of PS fluid anywhere in my neck of the woods. What would be the best alternative?

 

In case you're intrested. This is the easiest maintenance item on the truck - go to wallyworld and get a $2 turkey baster. Pick up a synthetic PS fluid at an auto parts store. Using the turkey baster, extract the fluid out of the reservoir and refill. Next day or so do the same thing - within a few days you will have changed out 95% of the fluid with almost no effort and no mess. Just make sure the turkey baster does not make it into the kitchen or the Thanksgiving turkey will taste a little funky.

 

Amsoil makes a full synthetic P/S fluid.

 

Now that I may be able to find.. Thanks!

 

I did one turkey baster treatment so far with new Valvoline non-synthetic PS fluid and already feel a difference. My truck only has 86,000 miles on it too. I was quite pleased and it's not the expensive stuff although I was looking for the Royal Purple but could not find it so I figured what the heck.

I used a turkey baster with about 5" of clear plastic hose stuck on the end to really get deep into the power steering reservoir. I was able to remove 16 oz if I remember correctly in one attempt.

 

Valvoline Ashland makes a good product. Yes! The hose on the end does the trick. I found that the pump in my 2001.5 would freeze in the winter due to condensation or water in the pump. I decided to change the fluid evey time I perform an oil change. I have not had any problems since.

 

As long as the old PS fluid is clean looking I've found just adding Lubegard PS treatment works as good as synthetic.

 

This seems to be a bit of an overkill but won't harm anything I suppose. I think once every 2-3 years is adequate. I don't think mine has ever been changed, and it shows, needs to be done.

 

Thanks for the replys. Reason for the search, I reciently replaced the ps pump and not finding a local source for a synthetic I used Mobile1 auto trans fluid. It seems to be working fine, but who knows about long term.

I leave in about 3 weeks for the Rockies and we camp above 9,000 feet and it can get Big Boy cold so I'm thinking change out to a good synthetic in order to avoid the loud ps pump cold weather protest.

I'll check with the local NAPA and see if they can order in Royal Purple, my O'Relly's said it wasn't available for order (????).

Thanks,

RR

 

Another option is Redline. Check out their website Redlineoil.com and go to their dealer locator to find a store in your area.

 

If you can find some, double the order. My truck is making some wonderful noises that I would rather try changing the fluid before rebuilding the pump.