Oldsmobile/Buick: 87 Cutlass 2.8 power steering problem, power steering fluid, ase certified mechanic

Question
Yes I will look closely at the fluid color.
If I do the flush, is there a certain brand of fluid that is the best?

It doesn't make a whine when I turn.

It just will every once in a while lose all power so I have to tug.  

Then it goes back to normal?!?!?
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Followup To

Question -
My Cutlass power steering is starting to act up.
I can drive it for a day or so without a problem.

Then out of the blue, especially when braking and turning, it feels like I have no power steering at all.  Then a couple more turns, and it will be fine for a day or so.

The fluid level looks fine.

I just got the car about 5 months ago.

Should I flush out the old fluid and put new in?

Or replace the pump?

Any help is appreciated.

Answer -
Ry,

If the fluid is a solid black color then a power steering flush might do the trick. Listen for a whining sound when your making a turn, usually this means that the pump needs to be replaced. I have seen power steering flushes salvage even the worst looking pumps.

Ry, hope this helps  if you have any more questions please feel free to ask. Don't forget to rate my response to you. Also I noticed that this is your second question regarding your new/used car purchase. Since you've only had the car for five months then it might be worth it to have an ASE certified mechanic give the car a "once over" so that you don't have to deal with costly repairs in the future.

Ed McKenna

Answer
Ry,

Regular power steering fluid will suffice. I'm not savvy on brand names , "what's the best".

Flush out the old fluid and replace with new. I'd still have the problem diagnosed by an ASE certified mechanic , before you spend the money on a new pump , which you might not need.