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There are two ways to go about changing the fluid. The hard way completely purges the system but is a bit more time consuming and has a risk of breaking the somewhat delicate nipples on the reservoir. The easy way is very quick and easy but not as thorough. Really, I see no fault in taking the easy way out, but it's a matter of preference. A quick note on fluid. I replaced mine with GM compatible Havoline which I'm sure is a fine fluid, but it made my steering far too stiff. On the advice of someone on this board I replaced it with Valvoline synthetic stuff which restored proper feeling to my steering.
The easy way:
Take a turkey baster and suck as much of the old fluid out as possible.
Drive the car for a while, either just a few hours or even wait for your next oil change if your not in a hurry.
Repeat a few time until the fluid is nice and clean.
The hard way:
You may wish to jack up the car and have an assistant for reasons seen below.
Remove the power steering return hose from the reservoir. It is the smaller hose and it can be tough to remove, but be <B>extremely</B> careful not to break the nipple on the reservoir as it is quite delicate.
Put the return hose in a catch can of some sort.
Stand by with a few quarts of PS fluid while your assistant starts the car and slowly cranks the wheel back and forth from lock to lock (remember that it is on jacks at this point.)
Poor in the PS fluid to maintain a safe level and continue doing this until the fluid runs nice and clear. It could take 4-6 quarts with a very dirty system.
Turn off the car and reconnect the return hose.
Restart the car and cycle the wheel back and forth a few more time to purge any air from the system.
Put the cap back on the reservoir and take her for a drive. Top up the fluid if necessary.
Craig
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