Power steering fluid change...

[Nixid]

I did a search, but just wanted to clarify... Is sucking it out of the reservoir and replacing it with new fluid acceptable? My truck has 81k on it and the fluid is definitely dark. I've never messed with flushing a power steering system honestly and just want to stay on top of things as I need this truck to last! Thanks for any input.

Timmy the Toolman video on this easy method. Also has one for disconnect hoses method too. I think he is on the forum too.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GOb5yF2Xv8Y

 

[Jeffy]

I have the same problem and I didn't think it was the power steering since the "spots" are always at the same point.......

Did you take some pictures when did the replacement of the shaft or the spray?

Thank you so much for throwing this in!

No pictures, but the parts diagram below should help out. I sprayed the hell out of it right on the knuckle near the bottom. As you can see, there's just the two bolts holding it in, shouldn't take long to replace at all.

It's easy to locate the shaft, it'll be on the driver's side in the engine bay, just on the opposite side of the firewall from where the gas/brake pedals are.

 

[Seymore Butts]

Over on Youtube, Eric the Car Guy has three videos on 4th Gen 4r steering. Two about replacing the rack, and the third about replacing that shaft in your diagram. I think that one is called "4runner steering problem returns".

 

[tstevens]

OP, here is a great write up.
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/219646-diy-power-steering-flush-4th-gen-specific.html

 

[LukesGarage]

Guys I have a youtube channel and bought a new old 3rd gen. Lots of videos coming.
Started with how to change your power steering fluid. Link below if you need instructions

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P22_AWQcAY&list=PL6gPew2iWLFHyUb4F8AOLADldosUKPtIO&index=1&t=12s

 

[jlaw904]

Piggybacking on what cabowally said... I just did mine since I noticed the dealership I bought it from did not use the Toyota recommended ATF fluid. I used that method but instead of sucking out of the reservoir, disconnect the return line at the reservoir and point into a funnel. Have that funnel connected to a hose running down to a fill jug. Each time you rotate the wheel to lock in each direction, refill the reservoir. It pretty much empties it every time you hit lock. Do that until it starts coming out red/pink. Easier than I expected.

 

[Whamola]

I just did mine. Used the turkey baster method with a hydraulic suction deal I got from Harbor Freight. Came with a long tube and ran about $13.

Sucked the fluid out, replaced. Turned car on. Rotated wheels left to right for a few minutes. Sucked out fluid again, replaced. Rotated Wheels left to right for a few minutes. Sucked out fluid again, replaced. Third time around probably wasn't necessary, but at $5 a quart....and not even using the full quart, it wasn't much of a concern.

I can't say I've noticed a difference, but that old fluid was dark and stinky.