Hello all,

I hope someone can help me out with a power steering issue.

I have a 2000 Dakota and the power steering will only work when you accelerate. As soon as you let off the gas its gone. Belt is good and fluid is full but old. Also tried bleeding the system. Assuming the pump may be shot but not sure.

Thanks in advance

Vern

 

make sure your fluid level is okay and if it is its probably your pump

 

anyone ever rebuild a dakota power steering pump?

 

Change the fluid and add LUCAS.

 

Have you tried this before? I Changed the fluid with ATF 4 and it didn't fix the problem. Still thinking its the pump but haven't had time to change it.

Thanks

 

You're using the wrong fluid. From the 2000 FSM:

CAUTION: Use MOPAR Power Steering Fluid or
equivalent. Do not use automatic transmission fluid
and do not overfill.

 

Well thats what was in there to begin with but my dealer told me it has changed to ATF+4. I saw it in his computer last Thursday so if you have a new TSB please post it.

Thanks

 

We're both right:

NUMBER: 19-005-03
GROUP: Steering
DATE: Aug. 29, 2003

MS9602 should not be mixed or used as a "topping off" fluid on systems requiring MS5931. On some past models, MS9602 should be used as the replacement fluid. On these models, if a power steering system is being serviced that results in a large fluid loss, such as a pump, hose or gear/rack replacement, the complete system should be drained and filled with MS9602.

MS9062 is the ATF+4. MS5931 is the OEM.

You're good if you changed it out.

 

Thanks for posting.

Good info!

 

I'm confused now.

I was looking at the TSB and the chart that accompanies it. It reads:

Body Year Factory Fill PS Fluid Approved Service PS Fluid
AN 1994-2001 MS5931 MS5931
2002-2004 MS9602 MS9602

So, can we use MS9602, the ATF+4? It's clear we can't mix them.

Sorry I couldn't get the columns to line up.