Is it okay to use transmission fluid for power steering fluid?

 

they look and smell identical (at least the advance auto ps fluid does), but why even do it? ps fluid is cheaper anyway. i'm sure in a pinch, out on a trail, you could get by with ATF with no problems.

 

Wasn't really that I had the intention of doing it, just seeing if it's true or not.

 

on a lot of later model chrysler product atf4 is called for in both places

 

For years folks have been doin it. Use dextron not type F. I suggest following the mfg recomendation although. ps fluid is about the same price.

 

That's what they put in my 98 Ram at the stealership when I had the fluid changed last summer. They didn't burp it enough and the level showed low, so I called them and they told me that they put ATF4 in the system and gave me a quart to top it off.

 

My Mustang called for dexron for steering fluid, but I didn't know it. I put in power steering fluid when I got it, and it leaked out of a seal on the rack and pinion. Ended up having to replace the entire r&p assembly because that seal was not servicable.

 

I use Amsoil and have used the synthetic tranny oil for PS for years in both Dodge and Chevy.