Poll--What does your local MBZ shop reccommend?
 

After all I've read here, would you believe the local MBZ shop told me to use ATF in the power steering. I should mention here--for an '85 300td, not newer models.

What does your local shop say??

Cheers,

Bill

Got the same response from two shops here in San Francisco. So I went to the MBZ of S.F. parts dept, and picked up a bottle of Mercedes power steering fluid.

What color is the MBZ fluid?

I don't mean to start another oil thread but--I used ATF in my 300td and within a week it was blowing oil. Searched on this site and found that ATF has changed considerably the last 20 years. Found a lot of guys here who use Walmart ps fluid, which has worked fine for me. No more ATF for me!!!

After the switch, my car needed a repair that a DIY'er like myself would not want to tackle. Took it to the shop for the repair and just for laughs asked the tech what they use and he replied with "ATF". The ATF of today is completely different from the type A that was used back in the day. I began to discuss this point with the tech but he didn't want to hear it. Don't blame him though.

After this experience I was just curious what other shops had to say...Bill

Hmmm, if I remember correctly, the Mercedes PS fluid is a reddish/brownish amber color?

When I heard the 2 shops I questioned say ATF fluid, I was weirded out, which is why I just went and bought the P.S. fluid from Mercedes.

The same ATF that you put in your tranny is the fluid of choice for power steering units through the 80s. 90s start another era. Check your owner's manual.

Yup, I have a stearing box leaking bad since using PS as MB shop said to do. :mad: Oh well probably needed a new stearing box anyway. :rolleyes: The PS fluid with the stop leak formula has help slow it down, but it's going to have to be replaced later with a rebuilt. :(

Sure the owners manual states ATF, but like I said, ATF today is not the same as 20 years ago. They don't make the type A anymore. "A" is what was used in these cars, not dexron.

Do a search here and you'll find loads of info. The bottom line--do not use modern ATF and if you insist on it, find type A.

I've been running Walmart PS fluid with no problems. My search on this site is what made me switch. Check it out for yourself.

Cheers,

Bill

oldnavy
 

Hey oldnavy--Sounds like a good car you found for the one member. Can ya find me a wagon for $500?? :)

Nice of you to do that-

Cheers,

Bill