W123 power steering fluid type: ATF or synthetic PS fluid?

[shabazmo]

I probably need to replace the power steering fluid on my C123 1985 M110 engine. The book says use ATF fluid but many youtube videos talk about replacing it with synthetic power steering fluid as it offers better protection. Can anyone advice whether this is the best way forward.
Thank you

 

[DSM10000]

How long has the current fluid been in the system and are there any problems with it?

 

[shabazmo]

I bought the car last September and it has covered 53k miles from new. I have no record of the oil replacement but the car has lots of MB service stamps in the book. It has been in the hands of 2 collectors over the last 14 years, so I expect at least 14 years since the oil replacement and probably only 6k miles.
I feel that there is a lot of play in the steering but all steering linkages are in good condition. I know I may have to tighten the box a bit or get it reconditioned but want to replace a oil as a routine maintenance item. Its my first MB so I am not an expert on this car, although learning fast.

 

[DSM10000]

I bought the car last September and it has covered 53k miles from new. I have no record of the oil replacement but the car has lots of MB service stamps in the book. It has been in the hands of 2 collectors over the last 14 years, so I expect at least 14 years since the oil replacement and probably only 6k miles.
I feel that there is a lot of play in the steering but all steering linkages are in good condition. I know I may have to tighten the box a bit or get it reconditioned but want to replace a oil as a routine maintenance item. Its my first MB so I am not an expert on this car, although learning fast.

It sounds like a well maintained car and I can appreciate that you want to look after it.
I would certainly advise that you find an MB specialist who knows how to work on such vehicles

In terms of the fluid, I would be tempted to keep with the one recommended by MB. Sometimes changing hydraulic fluids can cause problems with seals etc.

Good look

I am sure it would be appreciated if you have time to upload some photographs of the car

 

[shabazmo]

Thanks. I am getting it dry ice cleaned next week so may post some underside photos.

 

[grober]

USE the MB stuff for the W124. MB 236.3 Lenkgetriebeöl A 000 989 88 03 if you can get it.
Mercedes used to use ATF in the W123 but ATF contains friction modifiers for the multiple clutches which can lead to premature wear so use proper power steering fluid. [ NO MODIFIERS]

Mercedes-Benz Betriebsstoff-Vorschriften

Die Mercedes-Benz Betriebsstoff-Vorschriften zeigen eine Übersicht der Anforderungen der im Fahrzeug benötigten Betriebsstoffe und der empfohlenen Produkte. Betriebsstoffe sind alle zum Betrieb eines Mercedes-Fahrzeugs / Aggregats erforderlichen Flüssigkeiten bzw. Schmiermittel z.B. Kraftstoff...

bevo.mercedes-benz.com

 

[Bellow]

USE the MB stuff for the W124. MB 236.3 Lenkgetriebeöl A 000 989 88 03 if you can get it.
Mercedes used to use ATF in the W123 but ATF contains friction modifiers for the multiple clutches which can lead to premature wear so use proper power steering fluid. [ NO MODIFIERS]

Friction modifiers in ATF it would appear are there to reduce friction to smooth shifting. More here >> Science Friction - Lubegard.

ATF has been used in manual gearboxes for 20+ years without problem (chosen for its low viscosity).

ATF in W123 steering will be fine. It was on mine at 230,000 miles where only a small adjustment at the steering box was required.

 

[optimusprime]

Pas fluid is not ATF fluid . so dont use it .Because pas fluid is special for the W123 and W124 power steering ..so many say ,, ho yes you can use just ATF fluid ,,but its wrong . Any one with a W123 owners hand book ,, in there it will tell you .

 

[shabazmo]

Just to clarify. The Mercedes book says use ATF for the power steering. The Youtube video below explains a bit about why people are changing to power steering fluid because ATF was not up to the job.

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[Gazwould]