PS fluid or transmission fluid?

[shoulker]

I have a 1991 SE500 (W140) - been off the road for 2 years. Everything is fine, except for the power steering. It was a bit creaky when I took the car off the road, and when all else was OK, the PS was still really heavy/stiff. I filled up the PS fluid with PSF - now I realise it was a big mistake!!
Do I need to bleed the system and replace with what??
I have read on the forums that it needs to be transmission fluid - but what make/type etc.
Then, how do I bleed the system (if necessary)?
I would appreciate any help you can offer
Steve

 

[Ron Palfrey]

See

http://forums.mercedesclub.org.uk/showthread.php?t=27749

 

[shoulker]

PS fluid

Thanks for the link.
How do I drain the system, to be able to replace the fluid.
Where is the bleed nipple/drain outlet situated - ...and would I need the car on a ramp to access it
Thanks
Steve

 

[Ron Palfrey]

If you have filled it with Power Steering Fluid then you will already have contaminated seals etc. It MAY be that the fluid you have used will do no harm and if it was me I would leave it now if your power steering is working fine. If you have already had to top it up then there has obviously been a leak hasn't there? Just keep your eye under the car for leaks, and on the level in case it drops.
If you really want to drain the fluid out I would siphon it out of the header tank first, then mark the unions to the steering box so that you can tighten them back exactly how they were on reassembly and let the fluid out of the box that way. I don't think you'll find a drain plug so I doubt if you'll get it all out. That's the reason why I'D leave it as it is now.
Best of luck,
Ron