1964 C2 Power Steering Leak

[George B.]

1964 C2 Coupe... Power steering leak. Replaced power steering rods and hoses about a year ago. Slight leak recently developed, but not consistent.... mechanic used Premium ATF Automatic Transmission Fluid.... Yes Transmission Fluid. What is recommended power steering fluid, and would you recommend a "Power Steering Stop Leak Fluid" and what brand?

Thank you,

George B. C2

[Don H.]

Re: 1964 C2 Power Steering Leak

For many years I always used ATF in power steering systems. Not any more, you must used power steering fluid (pick your brand). I had ATF cause a leak in a rebuilt system, the new seals are not compatible. Good luck.

[Mark E.]

Re: 1964 C2 Power Steering Leak

1964 C2 Coupe... Power steering leak. Replaced power steering rods and hoses about a year ago. Slight leak recently developed, but not consistent.... mechanic used Premium ATF Automatic Transmission Fluid.... Yes Transmission Fluid. What is recommended power steering fluid, and would you recommend a "Power Steering Stop Leak Fluid" and what brand?

Thank you,

George B. C2

The owners manual for 1970 says GM approved PS fluid or Dexron ATF is fine. Check what 1964 says, but it's the same PS system. It may say ATF Type A since that's the precursor and backward compatible with Dexron.

Clean the components then try to identify exactly what's leaking. If the hoses or their fittings are leaking, replace them. The system is prone to leaking especially the switch and cylinder, even with new components. So unless it's worse than a small puddle or two between drives, leave it alone.

Do not grease the zerk on the switch- that may cause it to leak more.

Also avoid stop leak chemicals. They can cause more harm than good by gumming up the system.