power steering fluid

[Morat]

My steering has just started groaning. Sure enough, the fluid level is low - in fact the reservoir is nearly empty. How much damage could i do driving 20 miles to get done more fluid? Would it be dangerous?
And is all ATF compatible/born equal?
Sorry for the dumb questions.....first time with steering for me!

[Brianmoooore]

Dextron II is now just about replaced by Dextron III, which is an improved version and backwardly compatible.
The first question to ask is where's the fluid going or gone? The level should be the same when the two year change interval comes up as it was when it was last changed.
Groaning starts when the fluid starts aerating, and it doesn't have to be that low for that, so if the fluids nearly gone, it suggests it disappearing fast.

[Morat]

Yes, I'm worried that the level was so low - but my first step is going to be to fill it up again and work out exactly how fast it's going and where. I'm sure that the fluid has been checked sometime in the last 4 years, but I can't remember when! Judging by the grim shade of chocolate milk that the fluid has taken on I think it's time for a flush and re-fill anyway.

[daimlerman]

Check the feed pipe from the reservoir,they have a habit of going porous,feels wet all the time.
Then the joints,then look for failed high pressure pipes.Bear in mind that there are steel pipes carrying the stuff around the outside of the rack.

[Brianmoooore]

Nothing wrong with being an optimist, but I'd be squeezing the boots on the end of the rack to see if they are full of fluid.

[daimlerman]

Be aware,Brian,as you are a little 'challenged' in the height department,that Morat stands 6'10'' in his socks and is built like an outside lavatory!