DIY for power steering fluid?????

[ndnboy]

Looking for a DIY on power steering fluid flush/replacement for the wifes 03 Pilot.

Cant seem to find one on here, is that because its that simple and Im the only one whos asked......am I that helpless

Thanks for any info you can provide.....

[belundy]

Done it twice. First, use ONLY Honda PS fluid or aftermarket fluid specifically for Honda/Acura. No universal fluid.

You can do a total fluid replacement by pulling off the upper (return) reservoir hose , and extending it with a length of CLEAR hose using a short piece of copper pipe to join the two hoses. Drop the loose end of the hose into a milk jug.

You'll have to fashion a "cap" for the now hoseless reservoir nipple using a short piece of tube with a golf tee or large bolt Plugging one end. And you'll have to remove the return hose and cap the nipple in quick motion so fluid doesn't dump all over.

Might consider first removing reservoir fluid using a large baster or something to minimize the switcheroo loss.

Have a helper start the car and let it run until the reservoir is nearly empty (will suddenly make a slurping noise)--just a few seconds of engine run.

Shut off, refill reservoir and repeat process until the fluid in the clear hose runs clean and reservoir is nearly empty again.

Re-attach return hose, fill reservoir.

Don't get freaked out by the pump making brief cavitation noise --it is still lubricated and the process won't hurt it a bit as long as your helper has reasonably quick reflexes and not texting on their cell while assisting.

The slower method--some are still nervous about running the pump "dry"-- is by sucking out the reservoir, fill, then run for 10 seconds and repeat until the fluid runs clear. This can take a 12 to 15 cycles as you are constantly diluting the clean fluid with the return fluid.

[ndnboy]

Thanks for the info, any chance you have pics to go along with it and/or the diameter size of needed hose/pipe?

Thanks again!

[belundy]

Somehow I knew that was going to be next. I don't remember, and didn't take pics however...

Some time ago I went to Lowes and bought 6 foot chunks of 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2" ID hose and 6" pieces of copper that fit the hoses snug and a few hose clamps. Those sizes seem to fit just about everything I need, including the PS on the Civic and Pilot, I think. Less than $10 total. Had the bolts and a fistful of golf tees around.

Can't play golf without taking out a liability policy, but the equipment is handy.

[ndnboy]

Thanks again, will make that that trip to Loews now......

[Aggie Pilot]

How much fluid would I need to do this?

[belundy]

think I used 3 maybe 4 of the 12 oz bottles. Bought mine at Walmart --two years ago? --and was labeled "specifically formulated for Honda/Acura". Autozone or Napa may also carry Honda OEM or equiv.

I'd stay away from any that don't mention Honda or "...suitable for Honda".