From Davies Craig

Australian automotive cooling specialist Davies Craig says the power steering system is the least talked about feature when discussing fluid cooling.
This vehicle accessory has become standard equipment in most vehicles in recent years, but little do people realize the power steering system’s hydraulic pump needs hydraulic fluid as a vital element to the smooth and agile operation of a vehicle’s steering and handling.
At its core, Davies Craig says many would be surprised that during constant use the power steering fluid can become quite hot and excessive heat can cause premature failure.
Vehicles do not have a power steering fluid temperature gauge and like all fluids, they can break down over time and cause power steering failure.
The power steering is either a belt driven or an electric actuated hydraulic pumping system. Its function is to provide power assistance to the mechanical steering mechanism.
The hydraulic pump is the heart of the power steering system. Generally, the components of the system are located in the engine compartment, the hottest possible position.
The recommended temperature range for power steering fluid (and its components) is in the 80ºC to 90ºC range. Higher temperatures could result in premature pump, hose and core failures.
Just like engines and transmissions, keeping power steering systems cool facilitates acceptable performance, extends component life, and increases efficiency.
In some instances, the original equipment power steering cooler core fails to manage the modern rigors of everyday motoring, especially in vehicles equipped for towing, racing or going off-road.
Davies Craig says it offers a number of suitable sized cores, stating that these specific Power Steering cores are engineered to not only smoothly control power steering operation and assist by dissipating fluid operating temperature by as much as 33 percent.
All the cores are manufactured and pressure tested to 150psi which Davies Craig says is far in excess of operating pressure.
Davies Craig’s Power Steering Oil Cooler Part #1009 is recommended for small passenger cars.
Other larger models, Parts #0401 and Part #0404 are Ultra Cool cores featuring tube and fin design for rapid heat transfer of fluid temperatures.
The Hydra-Cool style core Part #676, 12-Plate core is a more compact unit for tighter mounting spaces and offers higher heat exchange capabilities.
Davies Craig’s comprehensive line up of precision-engineered Power Steering Oil Cooler Systems are designed for universal vehicle fitment and include 1.4m of 3/8” hydraulic hose, hose clamps along with a Quick Fit Kit (Part #0579) to assist with simple core mounting.

For more information, contact Davies Craig on 03 9369 1234 or visit www.daviescraig.com.au/transmission-oil-coolers