I will be changing the power steering fluid in my 87 300D tomorrow. I know about the filter inside the fluid canister atop the PS pump, so I'll be changing that too.

QUESTION:What is the best, or most effective way to drain the entire system of old fluid?

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=116968&highlight=300e+power+steering

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63 220S W111
76 300D W115
2013 VW JSW TDI M6

previously-
73 280 SEL 4.5
86 300E 5 speed
2010 VW Jetta TDI M6

Adding to that thread...

I put a hose clamp on my turkey baster and attached a length of around 3" flex hose that I use to bleed brakes on the end to get it all out of that PS pump.

Also I throw away the old PS filter before I do any changing of the fluid, old filter won't clean it and probably just make more dirty fluid.

I run the vehicle after I drain it (after the refill of course). Repeat that a few times to flush the system... then install a new filter.

Having the return line off will help a considerable amount but you must be certain not to have the system suck in air otherwise you'll have to bleed it via jacking up the front of the car... read considerable amount more of work than needed.

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I'm not a doctor, but I'll have a look.

'85 300SD 245k
'87 300SDL 251k
'90 300SEL 326k

Six others from BMW, GM, and Ford.

Liberty will not descend to a people; a people must raise themselves to liberty.[/IMG]

I did check the thread JOSHHOL posted here, Thank You, and it was very informative. I will buy some more PS fluid and run it through without sucking air. When it starts coming out clear, I'll stop and button it up and top off the fluid. It was what I imagined I would be doing before asking, but I'm glad I got this info about NOT replacing fluid with DEXRON ATF, as it may play havoc with the seals!

This is actually a question or series of questions on the ASE test. It involves flushing two quarts of p/s fluid through the system while the return hose is laying down in a drain pan. It works best with a helper turning it lock to lock while pouring in the fluid. The fluid goes through FAST. If it gets empty it's not a big deal as long as you shut off the engine. Once the system is all back together and filled with fluid, simply turn the steering wheel lock to lock with engine running to bleed.

Sucking the reservoir empty and replacing doesn't do much more than nothing.

Good luck,