Power steering fluid change.

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10wrxing
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Posts: 85
Joined: Tue Apr 22, 2014 8:12 pm

Power steering fluid change.

Post by 10wrxing »

Hey guys,
Lately I've noticed my steering feels a bit tough. Car is a 1991 Legacy AWD auto 2.2L non turbo.
This is when driving on a straight road, then a slight curve, when I turn it feels a tiny bit stiff for a second. Then it's fine.
However, when going the other direction now, to straighten back up, it will be stiff again for that second. Then fine again.

So I checked the fluid and it looks very brown.

I figured I'd change the fluid on it, but I can't find very much info on it for a 1st gen.

I did see a video on youtube for a 95, but he was just siphoning it out from the reservoir.

Don't the lines need to be done as well?

Just looking for a bit more info on changing the fluid, or, maybe someone has some insight on the issue I described above.

Thanks!
Legacy777
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Re: Power steering fluid change.

Post by Legacy777 »

Use a turkey baster or something similar to suck the fluid out of the reservoir. Refill with fresh fluid, drive for a week, and then repeat the process. The new fluid will mix with the old fluid and after one or two flush & refills the fluid in the system should be clean.

I would also check your power steering/alternator belt to make sure it's not loose, cracked, and is in good condition. Also, with the belt off, check to see that the power steering pump spins easily and freely.
Josh

surrealmirage.com/subaru
1990 Legacy (AWD, 6MT, & EJ22T Swap)
2020 Outback Limted XT

If you need to get a hold of me please email me rather then pm
10wrxing
First Gear
Posts: 85
Joined: Tue Apr 22, 2014 8:12 pm

Re: Power steering fluid change.

Post by 10wrxing »

Thanks Josh.
Seeing that that was the only process I could find doing a search on here (before I posted), I did that Saturday.
It has helped so far, but still not 100 percent. So I will do another swap again this weekend.
The stuff in there is definitely old.
I will also have a look at the belts, as that is also another great suggestion!

Thanks again.
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