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Home >> Ford >> 2000 >> Contour SE, 2.5 L, Standard >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 276 (Steering System - General Information) >> Diagnosis And Testing >> Steering System >> Inspection and Verification

Inspection and Verification

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford Ranger. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel (3600) at the stops for an extended amount of time. Damage to the power steering pump (3A674) will result.
NOTE: Make the following preliminary checks before repairing the steering system:
  1. Verify the customer concern by operating the steering system.
  2. Inspect Tires
    • Check the tire pressure. Refer to the Vehicle Certification (VC) label.
    • Verify that all tires are sized to specification.
    • Check the tires for damage or uneven wear.
  3. Belt and Tensioner Check
  4. Fluid Level Check
    • Verify that the power steering fluid level is within the appropriate hot or cold range on the dipstick. Add Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or MERCON® equivalent.
  5. Air Bleeding
    • Verify that there is no air in the power steering system. Run the engine (6007) until it reaches normal operating temperature. Turn the steering wheel to the left and right several times without hitting the stops. If any air bubbles are present, refer to Purging in this section.

    External Leak Check - Typical Power Rack-and-Pinion Steering Gear 

    Fig 1: Checking Power Rack-And-Pinion Steering Gear For External Leaks
    G01269186Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  6. External Leak Check
    • With the ignition switch at OFF, wipe off the power steering pump, power steering pressure hose (3A719), power steering return hose (3A713), power steering fluid cooler and hose assembly and steering gear (3504).
    • With the engine running, turn the steering wheel from stop to stop several times. Do not hold steering wheel at stops. Check for leaks. Repair as necessary if leaks are observed.
  7. Turning Effort Check
    • Refer to Turning Effort Test under Component Tests in this section.
  8. Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical damage. Refer to the following chart.
    Fig 2: Visual Inspection Chart
    G01269187Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  9. If an obvious cause for an observed or reported malfunction is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding to the next step.
  10. If the fault is not visually evident, determine the symptom. GO to Symptom Chart.
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