Parts for your 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero-Power steering fluid

1987 Mitsubishi Pajero Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid is relevant to the 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero when fitted with the factory hydraulic power steering system. Technical references including Mitsubishi’s Pajero/Montero Workshop Manual (1983–1991, Group 37 – Steering), the Haynes Mitsubishi Montero 1983–1995 manual, and Gregory’s Pajero 1983–1996 (No. 502) confirm the first‑gen Pajero uses a belt‑driven hydraulic pump and a steering box that specifies ATF DEXRON II (or equivalent) as the working fluid. Base models without power assistance use manual steering and therefore don’t require fluid.

On Pajeros equipped with hydraulic assist, the fluid’s job is simple but crucial: it transfers force from the pump to the steering gear, reducing steering effort and keeping feel consistent from carpark speeds to corrugations in the outback. Fresh, correct‑spec fluid also lubricates the pump, protects seals, and keeps the steering box happy by carrying away heat and contaminants.

For servicing, the 1987 Pajero should run ATF to DEXRON II specification (a modern DEXRON III that’s backward‑compatible is commonly used, provided it meets the original spec). Under the bonnet, fluid level and condition deserve a quick look at every service. The fluid should be a clean red colour, not brown or black, and it shouldn’t smell burnt. Aeration or foam points to air ingress or low level. Many owners opt to refresh the fluid every 2–3 years or roughly 40,000–60,000 kilometres, especially if the vehicle works hard off‑road or tows.

• Quick checks: look for damp hoses, weeps at the pump shaft, and stains under the front crossmember. A light whine on cold mornings or heavier‑than‑usual steering can be early signs the fluid’s tired or the level’s low.
• Change tips: a simple top‑up exchange (siphon and refill the reservoir, then drive and repeat) gradually renews the fluid. A full exchange via the low‑pressure return line is faster, but the reservoir must be kept topped so the pump never runs dry. After any change, bleed by turning the steering from lock to lock with the front wheels off the ground, engine running, and avoid holding it at full lock.

Stick with the specified ATF, keep the level on the mark, and this old‑school hydraulic setup will steer smoothly for years without fuss.

Popular questions

What power steering fluid does a 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero use?
Mitsubishi’s workshop literature for first‑gen Pajero specifies ATF to DEXRON II for the power steering system. Many owners use a quality DEXRON III that’s backward‑compatible. Avoid mixing with “universal” fluids that don’t list DEXRON II/III compatibility.

How often should the power steering fluid be changed?
There’s no strict factory interval, but a practical target is every 2–3 years or 40,000–60,000 kilometres. Vehicles that see heavy off‑road work, water crossings, or frequent towing benefit from more frequent changes and regular level/colour checks.

How is air bled from the 1987 Pajero’s power steering after a fluid change?
Raise the front so the tyres are off the ground. With the engine off, turn the wheel slowly lock to lock a few times. Start the engine and repeat, topping the reservoir to maintain the correct level. Don’t hold at full lock, and watch for bubbles clearing. Recheck for leaks and recheck the level after a short drive.