Karen,

There are a number of things to look at when you have PS Grindy issues...
having just completed a swap of my Power Steering rack.

1. It is a good idea to flush your lines, by pulling the return line at the
reservoir, and having someone move the steering wheel back and forth while
you add fluid.  Do this until the fluid is clean.
2. Use Dextron II or greater, Automatic Transmission fluid
3. There is a filter at the bottom of the Transmission fluid reservoir.
Change it after you flush your system.
4. Check for leaks, since this is pressurized, it can leak from anywhere.  I
had to change my lines, and went with these
http://members.aol.com/Fkc43/hose.htm a lot easier than OEM!!!!!

If you need to change the Power Steering rack, do the tie-rods at the same
time.  You will need an alignment after you change the rack.

Good luck on this project!  If all else fails, you can always disconnect the
power steering belt, and drive it as a manual until you can do what ever
repair you need to.

Jack R.
84 Westy Wolfie

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
~K~
Sent: Thursday, May 15, 2008 12:44 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: vanagon power steering

I have a possibly sad little question but can't find any info online about
it oddly enough.

The steering on my van is sounding a bit grindy. I'm wondering if maybe i
need to change the power steering fluid. It feels kind of tight to turn at
first run but then gets better.
Also, i know it's ATF fluid that goes in but is that the same ATF that goes
into the transmission? I know this is a dumb question but i thought best ask
rather than put something scary in there!!

thanks in advance,
Karen
85 Vanagon GL