I have a 1998 SR 210 Bow rider with a 5.0 Merc. I am trying to change out the dirty power steering fluid and have consulted the online manual for the engine. It only talks about how to add fluid to the fill line when the engine is hot or cold. I don't know what type of PS fluid the prior owner put in and the book says not to mix them! I don't see a drain port so can I pump the fluid out of the tank from the top and add new? What type of fluid is best? Dextron or ATF? Thanks!
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Power steering fluid
- Thread starter Scotyp
- Start date
I think you're getting your terminology mixed up. Dexron is a brand of ATF. ATF = Automatic Transmission Fluid.I have a 1998 SR 210 Bow rider with a 5.0 Merc. I am trying to change out the dirty power steering fluid and have consulted the online manual for the engine. It only talks about how to add fluid to the fill line when the engine is hot or cold. I don't know what type of PS fluid the prior owner put in and the book says not to mix them! I don't see a drain port so can I pump the fluid out of the tank from the top and add new? What type of fluid is best? Dextron or ATF? Thanks!
Most owners don't touch the power steering system unless there's an issue. Do you know for sure that there was a problem/leak, leading to the PO adding fluid? To completely change it, you'd have to flush by removing lines. Otherwise, pump the fluid out... fill... circulate... pump out... fill... circulate. Do that a few times and you're fine.
Pretty much any old ATF will work. The system is not picky. Pick up some inexpensive Type III and you're good to go.
scoflaw
Well-Known Member
- Aug 10, 2011
- 6,395
- Boat Info
- 1999 Powerquest legend 260 sx 502 mag
2005 Baja 242 islander 496
- Engines
- 502 mpi Bravo 1
496 mag B1
That system isn't fussy, if it's red now add atf, if it's amber add power steering fluid.
You can unhook the return line at the pump, put the hose in a container and start the engine.
You can unhook the return line at the pump, put the hose in a container and start the engine.
Ok thanks for the clarification on the fluid type! I have had no issues with the system and it has no leaks. Its just dirty fluid and thought you might treat it as you would changing engine oil. How long can this stuff go before you SHOULD remove the lines,drain and replace?
For the most part... when there's a problem. Certainly can't hurt to do it, though.Ok thanks for the clarification on the fluid type! I have had no issues with the system and it has no leaks. Its just dirty fluid and thought you might treat it as you would changing engine oil. How long can this stuff go before you SHOULD remove the lines,drain and replace?
Think about it this way... do you change your car's power steering fluid on a regular basis?
