Power Steering Fluid
#2
My MY02 service products manual states that you can use either the
MB power steering fluid (PN 000-989-88-03) or an approved Dextron III ATF. The list of approved Dextron III ATF is as follows:
Based on this, you have a large selection.
- Castrol Dextron-III/Mercon ATF F-30341
- Castrol Transmax M-22257/22096
- Chevron ATF Dextron III F-30108/30159
- Citgo Multi-Purpose ATF D-21571
- Exxon Superflo ATF Dextron III F-30111
- Havoline ATF Mrcon/Dextron-III F-30321
- Texaco ATF Mercon/Dextron-III F-30321
- Penzoil ATF D-22413/F-30110
- Quaker State Dextron-III/Mercon F30161
- Sunoco ATF Dextron/Mercon F-30176
- Unocal Multi-Purpose ATF D-22413/22431
- Valvoline ATF Type D
Based on this, you have a large selection.
#4
I know, it's more yellowish brown, if there's anything like that.
I believe that's because its the OEM stuff (just like the washer fluid). You won't go wrong with any of the listed MB recommended fluids though. Personally, I'll stay away from the "All Purpose" fluids. Nothing is ever all purpose.
#6
I don't see how it would hurt because you wouldn't
be changing the viscosity to anything worse. However, I won't just for "feel good" reasons. I don't believe these hydrocarbons will react in any way to cause any harm. Why are you doing this anyway? I know you're exploring the possibilities, but why not just get the OEM stuff from your dealership? My suspicion is that it'll not be that much more in cost. The OEM ATF, on the other hand, is quite expensive.