[unlimited4x4]

My resevoir fluid level was low, so I checked the manual and it reccomends that I use ATF4 to re-fill the reservoir. What is the difference between ATF4 and the stuff on the shelf labeled power steering fluid? Is the same thing, just repackaged?

[Ejunior2]

Originally Posted by unlimited4x4

My resevoir fluid level was low, so I checked the manual and it reccomends that I use ATF4 to re-fill the reservoir. What is the difference between ATF4 and the stuff on the shelf labeled power steering fluid? Is the same thing, just repackaged?

x2 on this questions - I'd like to know too.

My personal thought though is no, not the same thing. ATF+4 is pretty specific to Chrysler tranny's from what I can tell. The stuff in the power steering fluid bottle is probably an AFT fluid of some kind but I doubt it's AFT+4.

Now, the question is does the Jeep PS system really need AFT+4? I doubt it. That's probably just what they call for because that's what the Jeep serviice centers will most likely have on hand. I wouldn't want to mix the ATF+4 that's probably already in our Jeep with whatevers in the PS fuild on the shelf. Just get a quart of the ATF+4 and top it off.

[helicase50]

When my power steering box was leaking bad I also just bought the high mileage crap with the additive to help stop leaks. It said it work on all vehicles or something like that. The dealer said it was good to use and it didn't make a huge difference as long as you didn't use stuff for cars.

[pielet97]

ATF+4 will have detergents in the fluid, regular ol' power steering fluid will not. I've used both and I've mixed and matched for decades with no leaks or failures.

[2jhanna]

I will try, but someone can correct me if need be.

all power steering system are not the same. one difference is the seal compounds. hydraulic power steering systems do use an oil based fluid. this is different than hydraulic brake system, which do not use an oil based fluid.

honda cars have always seemed to have their own "honda spec" fluid. most other imports (toyota, nissan, etc) have seemed to use atf/dextron. ford cars/trucks for years used "type f" atf but moved to atf/dextron/mercon in the late 90's. gm and chrysler always seemed to used regular old ps fluid.

there are even some universal fluids out there ??

my `02 manual says do not use atf but use mopar ps fluid ??

generanly if it is red, it is some kind of auto tranny fluid. if your is already leaking, you have some seal/hose that is leaking.

[2jhanna]

I found this spec for GC's.


Mopar®P/N 04883077 Hydraulic fluid / Power steering fluid (MS5931)

MS5931 IS THE ONLY FLUID THAT CAN BE USED FOR THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM. NO EXCEPTIONS!
Important note:
The factory fill power steering fluid for all 1999-2004 Grand Cherokees is a unique fluid, MS5931. ATF+4 (MS9602) should not be mixed or used as a “topping off” fluid on the Grand Cherokee WJ. All WJ models should be serviced using ONLY the special MS5931 fluid. ATF+4 is NOT an approved Power Steering Fluid and should never be used under any circumstances. Note that all fluids will darken in color with usage and fluid color is no longer an indication of fluid condition.

[unlimited4x4]

Well, I went with the manual and bought a quart of coastal ATF4 and topped it off. That way if something does go wrong...they can't get me for not follownig the manuals reccomendations.

I agree with the discussion on system components as a reason for selecting certain fluids over others. That makes sense to me why my manual calls for ATF$ fluid instead of PS fluid. My cooling system is another example. IT calls for the mopar HOAT coolant. They say using any other coolant will cause corrosion to the system components.

Thanks for the replies

[2jhanna]

OP, have you looked underneth for any wet spots on the gearbox and/or hose connections or ps pump ?

[unlimited4x4]

yep, I thought it was odd that it was low. I cannot find any indications that I have a leak. I run all the lines and components. I have placed a clean piece of cardboard under the jeep where I park it in the garage. I am going to look for any drops. I am just going to wait and see.