New Rack! ATF or PS Fluid?

[Iduzitbettr]

Hey guys, I have done countless searches and read many threads with mixed opinions on whether to use ATF or PS fluid for my power steering system. I have a 1992 camry LE I4. I recently got a new rack and pinion installed and would like to know the best fluid to use. The mechanic already filled it with ATF, but I can always siphon whatever I can get out.

Heres the thing, my father told me he has always used PS fluid in it since he bought the car in 92 and this is the original rack. The rack started leaking slowly over the past two years, and increasingly got worse this winter. However, it has lasted 19 years and 109k miles on PS fluid. So I am lost as to what fluid I should go with and the best brand.

Also, any reasons as to why one may be better than the other? What is best for the longevity of the rack. I live in NY, so pretty harsh winters and very hot summers.

I would like to get this sorted out since this is my DD and since the rack is brand new.

Thanks guys for any input.

[Chris Crash]

I would use ATF, but since your dad's been using PS, flush the system with ATF.

[Iduzitbettr]

Originally Posted by Chris Crash

I would use ATF, but since your dad's been using PS, flush the system with ATF.

My dad was using PS fluid in the old rack. This new rack was filled with ATF by the mechanic, so it currently has ATF in there.

[Chris Crash]

Then keep using ATF as stated on the cap and in the FSM! :thumsbup:

[fenixus]

yeah, keep it running on same ATF (synthetics are best) as you use in automatic transmission. those p/s pumps/racks hate generic p/s fluids (not enough shear protection).

it's a good idea to suck the ATF fluid from p/s return tank (e.g. with a turkey baster) and refill fresh every time you change the oil.

[Bdub215]

Originally Posted by Chris Crash

Then keep using ATF as stated on the cap and in the FSM! :thumsbup:

bingo. its there for a reason.

[JohnGD]

ATF was primarily used in older PS systems, however, some say Chrysler switched from PSF to ATF+3 in newer systems.

PSF is supposed to have more anti-wear additives not used in transmissions in addition to viscosity differences. Honda and GM's (Saginaw rack?) are picky about it. Those who own Hondas know only Honda's PSF formulation will keep the system healthy.

PSF was used in Toyota's MR2 for some years. But ATF is otherwise used.

[SexieWASD]

I've used power steering fluid in my own rack for two years now with no Ill effects, but It may take longer for increased wear to show as a problem, I would just stick to the atf.

[fenixus]

Originally Posted by SexieWASD

I've used power steering fluid in my own rack for two years now with no Ill effects, but It may take longer for increased wear to show as a problem, I would just stick to the atf.

I had used PSF to dissolve the very old factory ATF (transparent) whcih turned into something like honey (both color and thickness) over years
had PSF in there for a month then flushed all out with ATF, so far so good. even P/S started working better (was getting kinda stiff when honey like factory fluid was in there LOL). now after I touched timing and re-installed P/S belt in process (better tension) have to admit the steering wheel feels light hehe, but it's all OK, I know the P/S works perfectly fine finally just like it used to long time ago

[Iduzitbettr]

Thank you so much guys. I'll definitely be keeping the ATF in there, as well as changing the ATF in the return tank every oil change as Fenixus stated.