Power Steering Question, Steering is tougher.. fluid replacement? Options

[bigdmo13]

Hey guys, past few days I've noticed my steering is alot harder to turn than it has been in the past... Could this be due to the power steering fluid being low? The problem is when I was looking in the engine compartment I couldn't find anything labeled Power steering fluid... I did find in the back right corner a clear container that had redish fluid in it (almost rusted color) is that it? That one's fluid was right around the minimum line.....

I have a 1996 Celica ST... any help would be much appreciated... thanks guys!

[Supersprynt]

fluids low or the belts loose. Get any squealing?

[bigdmo13]

fluids low or the belts loose. Get any squealing?
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yeah there is some squealing but its been doing that since i had the car... how much of a hassle/ how do you tighten the belt? also where is the fluid to check it? thanks

[97GTinKC]

With power steering, resevoir is on the pass side fenderwell, just in front of the strut tower, has fill marks. I changed mine to Amsoil synthetic ATF, just unhooked the return line. plugged fitting on res, and ran extra section of hose from return hose to a can, started it and added new til it came out clean. you want someone to turn steering wheel lock to lock as you do this to get all the old out.

[Anub1s]

Wait a tic is ATF usuable as Power Steering fluid? I thought you had to use DOT-III fluid...

[Hanyo]

dot III?

isnt that brake fluid?

it can also be your tires are deflated making it harder to turn your wheel. I should look into flushing my steering.. my steering is really firm compared to my other cars.

[Supersprynt]

Power steering belt u'll need to get on the underside of the car, passenger side. Its easy to tighten.

[97GTinKC]

Manual calls for Dexron (ATF) in the power steering.

DOT III is brake fluid (also used in the hydraulic clutch system)