Power steering fluid for my 4905?

[pabusnut]

I know this has probably been asked and answered before.
What do I use for power steering fluid in my '73 4905.

While doing some other work "under the hood", I discovered that a sight glass on the power steering reservoir, and a dipstick, both of which showed why I have trouble steering in corners!

I thought I remembered it being either straight 30 wt or 40 wt, but before I make a huge can of waste oil, I better find out the right answer.

Thanks!

Steve Toomey
PAbusnut

[FloridaCliff]

I am using Dexron II in mine.

I have heard others say that they used 30wt,(could not find it in a search), but mine had Dexron in it, thats what I am using and it works fine.

Not sure if the 30wt is bad info or used in another type of pump.

Cliff

[TomC]

If it is a Ross or other steering, auto trans fluid.  If it is a Sheppard box, 15W-40 engine oil.  Good Luck, TomC

[wildbob24]

Steve,

The manual specifies 10w30 or 10w40 in 3 different places. It specifically warns against using Dexron, saying in bold capitol letters, and I quote: DEXRON OILS ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH THIS SYSTEM AND MUST NOT BE USED.

My expert source (Ray Cox) says it's because the Sheppard box has looser tolerances than the Ross gear and needs the extra viscosity. He also thought that Dexron may cause a problem with the seals.

So, basically, what Tom C said.

Bob

[Ncbob]

I have to agree with you Bob...and it's nice to see you on the Board. Please tell Ray that I'm extremely happy with my transmission and I think you again for coming to my rescue.

NCbob

[wildbob24]

Bob,

I'll pass that on and your welcome.

Bob

[pabusnut]

Thanks guys!


I am attacking my nagging problems one at a time.

I will be hitting air bags next, when I find appropriate blocking(read doubl-triple safe) that I feel comfortable getting under the bus with.

Steve Toomey
PAbusnut

[Lin]

I bring this up as something I read but do not know how valid it is.  It said to use motor oil instead of transmission oil because of the small possibility of a failure that would allow the power steering fluid to get into the engine oil.  If this were to happen, obviously it would be better not to have the Dextron mixed in.  Maybe someone has more knowledge about this.

[FloridaCliff]

The manual specifies 10w30 or 10w40 in 3 different places. It specifically warns against using Dexron, saying in bold capitol letters, and I quote: DEXRON OILS ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH THIS SYSTEM AND MUST NOT BE USED.

WildBob,

What are the numbers on the front of the maintenance manual you are referencing?

Thanks

Cliff

[wildbob24]

Cliff,

I have 2 manuals. One is X-7564, dated 1975. The other is C-7713, dated 1978. Both specify the motor oil and warn against using Dexron.

Bob

[RickB]

I ran a combination of 30 wt rotella and lucas power steering additive in my 4905. The lucas completely stopped my leaks.
Rick

[FloridaCliff]

Bob,

Thanks for the info.

The guy I bought this bus off told me that dexron was what he put in the PS. Had Dexron with a sharpie on the supply tank.

And that's what it looks like, but my 77 manual shows 10w30.  I have a 1975.

Since it had no leaks or pump, steering issues, I had no reason to question it

I am going to check my PS unit in the am and see if its a Shepperd or Ross.

Have added maybe 4 ounces in 4 years/ 20k mile, but this thread has raised some valid concerns.

Lin has a valid point on type, as you do.

Thanks for the info.

Cliff