ATF in Hydraulic Steering System

[defever]

i have a teleflex hydraulic steering system in my boat (1983 vintage) and the manual and a tech support guy from the company said dextron 2 atf is the right stuff to use in the system. not sure if you can still find dextron 2 but dextron 3 is now in use. is it the same stuff and should i use it??

[boden36]

I think you can, but the best way to find out is to ring the oil company tech help line and ask them - they are usually extremely knowledgable and helpful.
Regards,
Richard.

[delmarrey]

That's Dexron, and Dexron III is an upgrade and useable where the II was once. Dexron VI is even better but expensive.

And Yes! ATF has been used in hydraulic systems for years. Especially if there is are a lot of inert gear parts.

[S/V Alchemy]

The stuff I use is called AT-4 and is the same hydraulic fluid used in lowering landing gear in small airplanes. Shell makes it, I believe.

I've heard ATF/Dex will work, but is in some way sub-prime. My hydraulic helm is made by Marol and has two wheels going to one ram.

[Nemo55]

Transmission fluid is Hydraulic fluid by design, the main difference will be viscosity and Anti-foaming additives.
Ideally you want a fluid to have anti-foaming additives.

[Viking Sailor]

I have a 1250 teleflex helm and use any of the Dexron ATF's with never a problem.