Hi

My car is quite old now and the steering feels very light. Car has been checked and there is absolutely no play anywhere. The dealer told me that with 216000km, the steering pinions are a bit worn so the steering feels lighter than when new. I'd like to know if it is possible to pour an ATF fluid with a higher viscosity in the power steering in order to "stiffen" the steering?? Is there different viscosities available for ATF? Will it damage the power steering pump if the fluid has a higher viscosity than now?

Thanks

You have lots of options, but I don't know if the PS pump will like some of them. There is racing ATF available, which might be thicker. There is also regular PS fluid, but whats the viscosity? You could also try any of a multitude of hydraulic fluids. I would give someone like Redline Oil a call and ask the chemist. They sell almost all that stuff and could probably give you a decent answer.

Power steering pumps aren't very discriminating, btw. They'll be OK with almost anything.

Check out the graph on the bottom of this page:

http://www.redlineoil.com/redlineoil/atfti.htm

It looks like the viscosity of the High Temp ATF might be suitable for you.

thanks Elwood, I'll mail Redline for infos on monday.

ATF works for power steering. the pinion and rack...there is some kind of grease anyways!ATF does not work with them!
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i prefer non-german cars

Same stuff in the steering rack.

What is the difference between ATF Type F and Type G? Both can be used in the S40 according to VADIS.

Use only what Volvo suggests.Changing to a higher viscosity fluid could increase pressures to an unacceptably high level,damaging the pump,hoses or rack.