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Power Steering Fluid Confusion

Discussion in '3rd Gen 4Runners (1996-2002)' started by Trekker, Aug 28, 2020.

  1. Aug 28, 2020 at 5:55 PM
    #1
    Trekker

    Trekker [OP] Regular Member

    Joined:
    Jul 25, 2020
    Member:
    #15732
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    Vehicle:
    1997 3rz 5spd
    TL;DR:
    What type of fluid should I use? Power steering fluid or automatic transmission fluid.
    What is the best way of removing the old fluid?
    How much fluid (amount) do you need to add to the system?
    Should I flush the old fluid out or is emptying it good enough?

    Full:

    I haven't been able to find the cause of my squeaky steering wheel but I checked my power steering fluid today and while it wasn't black it did look a little dirty.

    There are conflicting ideas on which fluid you should use. Some say you should use power steering fluid while others say to use automatic transmission fluid (as recommended in owners manual). One of the videos was by a person who claimed they worked at a toyota dealership that only used power steering fluid against the recommendation in the owner manual.

    Also what method should be used to remove the old fluid? Some seem to remove hoses and drain the fluid that way even turning the car on to ensure everything is removed. But other videos have people using a suction method which seems easier.
     
  2. Aug 28, 2020 at 6:12 PM
    #2
    Dillusion

    Dillusion Resident A**h***

    Joined:
    Dec 10, 2018
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    #7998
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    3,097
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    Male
    First Name:
    Kyle
    Island in the Middle of the Ocean
    Vehicle:
    2018 TRD OR
    I'd roll with what the manual says.

    DEX II or III


    If you don't feel comfortable disconnecting lines you can do the suction method but I personally think you use more new fluid doing this.

    Either way should be fine honestly.

    But before you spend time flushing are you keep saying squeak. Are you sure it is related to the rack and/or pump? Have someone turn your wheel while you are outside to make sure where it is coming from.

    I personally don't think the pump sounds like a squeak.
     

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