Will there be consequence to not using the recommended GM part # 1052884 in a pint or GM part # 1050017 in a qt.?

I doubt it.

 

Are you planning on running the PS on ATF or are you planning on putting PS fluid in it?

If you're asking if you can use aftermarket PS fluid, I've been using Pennzoil PS fluid (with no stop leak) in my caddy for about a year with no issues. I seem to remember the GM PS fluid was about 10 a quart when I bought it last, and the aftermarket stuff I've been using is about 2.50 a quart.

 

I was planning on leaving it alone. Some have posted that problems will arise and this is a forbidden practice, and I searched here & elsewhere for longer than was absolutely necessary and found no clear answers on the subject. Every link in search threads is broken. There are those who insist that ATF oil is not P/S oil and iminate doom lurks around the corner. Frankly I'm not feeling the urgency but don't want to have to change out a rack or pump. BMW uses Dextron as the P/S oil out of the factory & recommends it. GM does not. What are the differences that would disqualify Walmart DexII/III Mercon ATF oil as a subsitute for the GM p/s oil ?

 

....What are the differences that would disqualify Walmart DexII/III Mercon ATF oil as a subsitute for the GM p/s oil ?

Dexron III or Dexron VI are not power steering fluids according to the ASTM specification for the valves, seals, and hoses used in GM magnasteer systems.

The GM specified fluid is a clear mineral oil containing an anti-foaming agent and other unidentified additives.

Valvoline SYNPOWER power steering fluid claims to meet the GM power steering fluid ASTM standard.

It's your car and your money.

 

For what it's worth (and that may not be much), years ago we always used ATF in the P/S. May have even been recommended, I can't remember. I doubt P/S pumps have changed much over the years. I probably would not use it or recommend it today, but likewise, not sure it would do any harm.

 

Thanks Jim, Finally a reason why, Magnasteer. I'm taking a peek at this early system an came to the conclusion that I don't want to mess up this rack. I need to change out this fluid. I have run it 1000 miles w/atf no problems knock on wood. I'll see whats compatible out there. www.bobistheoilguy.com

 

I was looking into this Magnasteer system it being 96 the first year offered in the ETC & ESC. Having the ESC model I took note that the ESC model RPO NV7 for "Variable Effort" steering that was offered in Cad's from 1991 thru 2010 and the ETC model RPO NV8 "Magnetic Speed Variable assist Mag". from 1996 thru 2008. according to the RPO website. What are the differnces between these systems? O'reilly has their store brand P/S fluid in a gal. jug for $12.99 meeting both GM specs.