So I just bought this used 2005 Dakota and first thing I did was to check all the fluid levels. I noticed the power steering fluid was low, so I went down to the local parts store and got some regular power steering fluid and topped it off. I only added maybe a few fluid ounces. Then a week later I got the manual and noticed it said to only use ATF-4 or you could cause damage to the system. So I started getting really worried, but I didn't put much in so I thought it would be ok. Then a few days later while underneath the truck I noticed that the little round clamps at the ends of the tie rod boots were off on both sides so I put them back into place at the ends of the tie rod boots. So the next day I'm looking underneath the truck again and notice it's leaking power steering fluid pretty good for the ends of the tie rod boots. I know it can't be from just putting those clamps back to where they were supposed to be. Now I'm worried I screwed someting up, maybe the seals, by putting in the regular power steering fluid? Is this just a coincidence that it started leaking or do you guys thing I screwed up? Should I flush the system? Don't even know how to do that? I did suck all the fluid that was in the reservoir out twice and replaced it with ATF-4. I'm hoping the problem will go away. Anybody have any info on this or have it happen to them? Thanks for all your help and suggestions.

 

Likely just a coincidence. Can you post pics of where it's leaking?

 

I did the same thing and didn't have any issues. Now fast forward a year later and one of the fluid lines on the rack and pinion has rusted and is leaking. I don't think putting the wrong power steering fluid had anything to do with it. Just posted a question a little while ago on whether there are parts to replace those lines without having to replace the rack and pinion. (2006 Dakota SLT)