Power steering fluid

[Nibbo]

Hi all,

Not really an engine thread but was not sure quite where to post so sorry administrators; please move if there is somewhere more appropriate.

My W203 is squealing like a little piggy when I turn the steering wheel.
Have checked the power steering fluid level and its not even registering on the little dip stick.

Does anyone know if I just ask the local motor factor for some power steering fluid or are there different grades?
If there are different grades what do I ask for?

Many thanks as always,
Nibbo

[BlackC55]

Get the oil from MB. Its a green colour and called Pentosin.

[Nibbo]

Originally Posted by BlackC55

Get the oil from MB. Its a green colour and called Pentosin.

Thanks BlackC55, however I tried to contact my nearest dealer to see if they had it in stock and that it was available over the counter. It's a 30 mile round trip and haven't got the time to waste at the moment.
As usual, no-one available... can I get them to call you sir? but no-one ever calls back. Even filled out an on-line parts enquiry, still no call back. Grrrr...

Do we know for sure that they sell it to the public?
Or, I think the grade is CHF 11S; presumably I can mix any fluid of the same grade or will this damage seals etc...

Thanks again

[nick mercedes]

Originally Posted by Nibbo

Thanks BlackC55, however I tried to contact my nearest dealer to see if they had it in stock and that it was available over the counter. It's a 30 mile round trip and haven't got the time to waste at the moment.
As usual, no-one available... can I get them to call you sir? but no-one ever calls back. Even filled out an on-line parts enquiry, still no call back. Grrrr...

Do we know for sure that they sell it to the public?
Or, I think the grade is CHF 11S; presumably I can mix any fluid of the same grade or will this damage seals etc...

Thanks again

How desperate are you for it?

I've got a few 1 litre tubs of it, at the very least I can get the part number them so you can get it locally.

[goldestate]

There are a number of firms that sell CHF Central Hydraulic Fluid to the required standard the S being synthetic, including Wynns, Comma, Febi and probably many more.
Pentosin is if I remember correctly an American brand.
If Mr M as above has some get it sent cheaper in fuel and time.

[Nibbo]

Originally Posted by nick mercedes

How desperate are you for it?

I've got a few 1 litre tubs of it, at the very least I can get the part number them so you can get it locally.

Thanks Nick,
Not too desperate; let me know the Part No and I will order it from your website.
Cheers

[Pontoneer]

I'd be interested to know when Mercedes stopped using ATF in the power steering pumps and went over to this different fluid ?

I suppose I'd have to guess that it might be when they changed over from recirculating ball systems to rack & pinion ?

[panason1c]

The power steering fluid level should normally never need a top up unless the system has developed a leak.........check your system for any fluid loss, a common area for leaks is from the steering rack rubber 'boots' on the steering arms which is due to a failure of the seals behind.

[Nibbo]

Originally Posted by panason1c

The power steering fluid level should normally never need a top up unless the system has developed a leak.........check your system for any fluid loss, a common area for leaks is from the steering rack rubber 'boots' on the steering arms which is due to a failure of the seals behind.

Good shout that man...

No sign of a leak so topped fluid up.
10 minutes later virtually no power steering at all; looked under bonnet and fluid everywhere so topping up must have increased the pressure and caused the undetectable leak to become a complete failure.
D'oh... managed to muscle it to a local garage who thinks it is just a seal; hope he is right.