Jim Grant's Tech Tips
'95 Ford Taurus, Transmission/Power Steering Rip-off?
Q:
I recently talked to my Dad, who has a '95 Ford Taurus with some transmission
problems. I am not sure what the actual problem is, but I am a little
disturbed by something the mechanic said to him. He said there were metal
flakes in the pan, which could effect the power steering system. He said
both systems were one in the same, (they have been combined). If this
is the case, why does the vehicle have its own power steering reservoir
as well as the transmission servicing tube which the dipstick slides down
into? What I am worried about is the integrity of the mechanic who happens
to work in one of the major transmission repair garages and the possible
shafting he is giving to my father.
- William E.
A:
The power steering and automatic transmission are two completely different
systems. They do not share fluids in any way! In fact they use different
fluids! Unless your father misunderstood what the tech was saying, you
have great reason to be concerned! I suggest calling your father and confirm
what he is telling you. If the story stays the same steer him away from
that shop. Why? Because it sounds like he's going to get a power steering
rack and transmission along with that shaft!
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