Power steering fluid switch

[calgaryguy77]

I have a 2001 Intrigue. Every winter the power steering pressure line will burst due to the cold. Is it safe to drain it all and use a synthetic fluid instead of the normal stuff I've been using?

 

[wolfvan88]

From what I read, yes. Like doing the same with engine oil. Just want to use correct fluid for gm systems.

But,
Have you checked your power steering pump?
Is it's pressure relief valve sticking?

Is the magnasteer system working and properly adjusting the pressure?

It is below freezing in my area and have not had that issue. 2 years in New pump, lines and rack.


It sounds like your pump is running at max pressure and when cold, pump not adjusting pressure and just blows out the pressure line.

Or possible, the replacement hose cannot take the pressure when cold or just fails about a year later.

But suspect issues when the relief value sticking.

 

[G-281144]

It was 45 below. Switched out to atf. The power steering fluid I was using apparently freezes up around -25c. ATF is good past -50. Hopefully next year we don’t get the same problem

 

[wolfvan88]

Oh, -45... dang that is cold.

I work reconsider atf.
It is designed to increase friction in the automatic transmissiat. With friction modifiers.

I looked at royal purple power steering synthetic fluid.

It goes to -45c / 49f is the pour point.

Where are you that it is so cold? (I see by your user name)