Scooter94

As I go through replacing the fluids on my 94, I went to the GM parts dept with my manual in hand. According to them, they don't even cross the PS fluid part number listed in the manual to a later fluid and the original number is discontinued. They told me that the original was synthetic and was made for easier steering in cold weather, and that GM doesn't use a synthetic any longer.

The original part number is 12345866 or 5867 (different size containers). What they sold me was P/N 19329448.

I have not really planned on a full flush, but do a drain the reservoir refill it with new and after driving it repeat multiple times.

Is there any issues with the fluid that they provided? I'm assuming I don't need synthetic, especially since I don't drive in cold weather. (often).

Weck86

Since no one has answered I'll tell you what I did. I have an '86 and used a NAPA branded generic power steering fluid, #9832. I used your suggested process of draining and refilling the reservoir multiple times, with driving in between refills. I have had no adverse affects.

If you want to stick with a synthetic I'm not sure but you could check Amsoil, Lukas or possibly Red Line. Will probably have to order on line tho for those.

TorchTarga94

Redline is an excellent choice. I have also used Lucas and have no complaints. Redline seems to be the fluid of choice for the racing crowd.

edit- Lucas you can pickup locally. Redline order from Amazon.

92ragtop

Ozzstar

I used synthetic Redline power steering fluid. What a BIG difference in smoothness and reduced the amount of energy needed to turn the steering wheel. Since I have learned that Amsoil makes a synthetic p/s fluid which I'm sure works fantastic. I used Amsoil synthetic auto trans fluid recently and could not believe how well it worked, shifts smooth as glass.

Scooter94

I've wondered about the added effort to turn the steering wheel was normal or not. Since I don't have anything to compare it with, I didn't pay any more attention to it. Its just more than a standard car.
I think I'll look for the Redline PS fluid.

mako41

Go with the Redline synthetic P/S fluid, it meets GM Spec Number 9985010, several of us have been using it for years with excellent results:

http://www.redlineoil.com/product.aspx?pid=79&pcid=27

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...ing-fluid.html

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...t-gives-2.html

This thread is an interesting read on P/S fluid for late model C4's that originally required P/S fluid with GM's 12345866/7 spec;

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...-ps-fluid.html

tmirisola

Good to know

exitwound

Been using this 100% in the reservoir for over ten years in my '87. Works perfectly.. No leaks, great feel.

http://lucasoil.com/products/problem...ring-stop-leak

c4cruiser

I really like the Red Line synthetic PS fluid. It works very well to handle the heat generated from high RPM operation such as track use or even autocross.

DGXR

I did the same thing: empty reservoir, refill with fresh, drive a few hundred miles, repeat. I did it 3 times and figured that's plenty of fresh fluid for maintenance of the system. I used regular Prestone power steering fluid, it meets GM service requirements and is compatible with factory fill.

I don't think synthetic is necessary in your situation. But the Prestone fluid for American cars is fully synthetic:
http://prestone.com/enmx/products/ca...s/product_list

Also, power steering fluid isn't a regular service item but after this many years it's probably a good idea to freshen it up. That's why I did it, there were no problems, I just wanted fresh juice in everything

Scooter94

It smells pretty strong and is dark in color. Sounds like cheap insurance.

tmirisola

This is what I purchased. Had to buy on line. Couldn't find any local suppliers who carried Red Line.

This the right stuff????

mako41

Yep that's the stuff I used!

FAUEE

I use royal purple synthetic power steering fluid with a little bit of the Lucas stuff in it to condition it. Works well.