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Pressure and Return power steering line replacement

 I work at a Lincoln/Mercury dealer, and I don't know how many sets of power steering lines I've replaced on late 80's - early 90's F-150's due to leaking.  It's not really an overly complicated job, it's just tedious, frustrating, and real easy to screw up.  My Bronco was starting to seep a little, so I figured I'd replace them before I start leaving puddles.  This may seem like a lot of time, but when you try to thread the fittings for the new lines, you'll understand. :)

 

Before you tear into your truck, please read my legal disclaimer!

Step #1

The first thing you want to do is position a drain pan underneath the p/s line connections to prevent spilling fluid.  It is not necessary or practical to drain the entire system.  You might have to remove the air box to access this area.

Step #2

The next step is to spray all he fitting areas with brake cleaner to remove grease and dirt as not to contaminate the system.

Step #3

The first part is easy, remove the lines.  There is one fitting on the back of the pump, which is usually a hose clamp, one fitting on the side of the pump and two on the steering gear.  There is two bolts on the engine crossmember that need to be removed in order to remove the return line.

Step #4

The next thing is to install the new lines, but be careful to do this correctly the first time to save yourself a lot of aggravation.  There is a teflon ring that needs to go onto the return line before it is put on.  This ring should be on the hose at the connection for the steering box.  Then install the rest of the lines, it may take a little maneuvering to get everything to thread right, and it is pretty aggravating.

Step #5

The next step is to bolt the new return line to the engine crossmember underneath the truck.

Step #6

Next, refill the pump resivor with fresh fluid, start the engine, and move the steering wheel back and forth between the stops to bleed the air out of the system.  Check for leaks and reinstall any components you had to remove for access.
 
 

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