Author Topic: ATF for power steering fluid  (Read 3844 times)

March 17, 2019, 09:48:50 am

Spokerider

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ATF for power steering fluid
« on: March 17, 2019, 09:48:50 am »
YES, I know that you can buy the dealer-spec Pentosin PS fluid......and so can I.......but I can also buy and use ATF.

 Is there any real world experience out there that proves ATF will harm vw Mk2 steering components?
 This topic has been regurgitated many times over in the last 2 decades, but 99 percent of the topic chat is to use the deal spec Pentosin, for no other reason other than it's what the vw specifies.


 Looking for real-world experience fellas, yeay or nay.
 



Reply #1March 17, 2019, 02:01:14 pm

ORCoaster

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Re: ATF for power steering fluid
« Reply #1 on: March 17, 2019, 02:01:14 pm »
In my real world I don't use either of them.  Rack and Pinon steering on the two 1981's seems to do the job and keeps my arms in shape at lower speeds. 


Love the low tech.

Reply #2March 18, 2019, 12:46:43 pm

Spokerider

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Re: ATF for power steering fluid
« Reply #2 on: March 18, 2019, 12:46:43 pm »
lol.
 My jetta came with PS, so my arms get to have a holiday.
  ;D

Reply #3March 18, 2019, 07:52:46 pm

libbydiesel

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Re: ATF for power steering fluid
« Reply #3 on: March 18, 2019, 07:52:46 pm »
I do not have experience with attempting to use fluids other than those recommended by VW or ones that exceed those recommendations.  I will mention that the Vanagon (straddled Mk1 and Mk2) had ATF as the specified fluid for the power steering system.  I imagine it would work even if a different fluid is specified.  My only concern would be that the material of the seals in the rack might not be specifically made to handle ATF and might leak in time. 

Reply #4March 20, 2019, 09:56:21 am

Spokerider

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Re: ATF for power steering fluid
« Reply #4 on: March 20, 2019, 09:56:21 am »
The bently that i have, says ATF is recommended for the older Mk2's. Then vw went to "G 002 000" fluid.......whatever that is. Not sure of the year they switched however.
 Bently also said ATF is compatible with the G 002 000 fluid.
 I'll just use ATF......

 

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