Hey all,

Now that I have all new/reman power steering system components, I'm wondering if I would benefit from throwing in an inline filter? I've heard of the Magnafine before. Are they good? What are you guys using if you have PS fluid filter and where should I place it?

I'd put it in the power steering return line.  There's more mechanical movement going on in the steering box so more metal than the hydro boost and if it plugs up you loose power steering and not the brakes.  

If the return plugs you still lose the breaks. The return has to keep moving to allow the pressure to flow. 

 

I have often thought about a filter on my truck as PS fluid takes a beating. 

Power steering fluid flows under high pressure to and through the hydro boost to the power steering gear. When the brake peddle is applied the spool valve moves to allow pressurized PS fluid into the power chamber and still maintain pressurized fluid to the steering gear. The spool valve moves only about ¼" and very little PS fluid flows through it to the return line and back to the PS reservoir. If the return line from the hydro boost is blocked the brakes will self apply while the brake peddle is free.  If the PS gear return line to the PS reservoir is blocked the pressure in the system will increase until the pressure relief valve opens.  There will still be pressure to the hydro boost.  

It depends on how you tap into the return  line. If the filter is after the T for the brake/steering return and it plugs your brakes will be effected, until they blow the low pressure return line off. Even then if flow thru the hydroboost is restricted, as it would be with a steering return blockage, your brakes will be effected. 

 

I don't think it's really that big of a concern and just pointing out a plugged return will effect the operation of a hydraulic system. It's the reason many return filters have bypass valves while pressure filter don't in redundant systems.

Edited July 12, 20168 yr by AH64ID

There is no T fitting on a 2001 dodge power steering/hydroboost system.  There are two separate return lines to the PS reservoir.  The PS return line flows more fluid, that's where I'd put it. 

  I didn't notice the bypass

Do you have a part number for that? And do you know the size of the lines? 3/8?

Here's another question, is there any reason to think the autozone version wouldn't work just fine? It looks just like the magnefine....

10 hours ago, leathermaneod said:

Do you have a part number for that? And do you know the size of the lines? 3/8?

part #R038M-P   ⅜" line

http://www.magnefinefilters.com/Magnefine-3-8-Magnetic-Inline-Power-Steering-Filter-R038M-P.htm

7 hours ago, leathermaneod said:

Here's another question, is there any reason to think the autozone version wouldn't work just fine? It looks just like the magnefine....

I couldn't find the Autozone filter you've mention but just because they look the same doesn't mean they're the same inside.

Thanks for the reply! Here is a link to the autozone one. http://www.autozone.com/filters-and-pcv/power-steering-filter/cardone-reman-power-steering-filter/13909_865379_0/

I understand that they may not be the same inside, just like the idea of being able to run to autozone and pick on up for $10 rather than having to order.

        You get what you pay for.  Your truck has gone this long with out it,  don't be in a hurry and get the good stuff. 

Here's another option.

 

http://www.cumminsforum.com/forum/94-98-non-powertrain/1584354-spin-power-steering-filter.html

I like Cowboy link much better because at least the spin on filters are going to have bypass set up to allow flow of fluid no matter what. This way there is no surprises when the filter plugs up and you can also easily spin a new filter and top off again.

The inline filters do have a bypass so you don't loose any braking or steering if it plugs up. I honestly don't think it's important enough for me to manufacture a setup for a spin on filter...

You're probably right, but I need a filter on everything!!!  I'm working on a battery acid filter as we speak. 

 

As far as how to plumb it in:

 

Stolen from here: http://www.cumminsforum.com/forum/94-98-non-powertrain/1881330-d89s-holiday-hydroboost-hullabaloo.html

Edited July 13, 20168 yr by Cowboy

Thanks for this. It reminded me t o order a new filter. Mine's been on for three years now and is sure to need changed.

 

 

On ‎7‎/‎12‎/‎2016 at 7:26 PM, leathermaneod said:

I understand that they may not be the same inside, just like the idea of being able to run to autozone and pick on up for $10 rather than having to order.

I'm getting ready to do a power steering flush and add a filter.  Did you use the autozone filter or have any problems.

I'm sorry to say I haven't added one yet. I was thinking about it, and would still like to, I just haven't got around to it yet. Plus I hate to add more stuff into that already cluttered area....

O'K, thanks

I love to hear/see how it goes for you and how you end up adding a filter if you don't mind....

I just ordered one from O'Reillys,  because I have a wholesale account there,  and I should get it tomorrow at 10:30AM.  I'm going to do a trans service, fluid and band adjustment, at the same time.