Power Steering System Bleeding
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 9 other vehicles, including the 2003 Ford Pickup, 2003 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2003 Ford F450 Super Duty, 2003 Ford Excursion, and 2003 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION:
If the air is not purged from the power steering system correctly, premature power steering pump failure can result. The condition can occur on pre-delivery vehicles with evidence of aerated fluid or on vehicles that have had steering component repairs.
NOTE:
A whine heard from the power steering pump can be caused by air in the system. The power steering bleed procedure must be carried out prior to any component repair for which power steering noise complaints are accompanied by evidence of aerated fluid.
- Remove the power steering reservoir cap. Check the fluid level. Raise the front wheels off the floor. Tightly insert the stopper of the Vacuum Pump Kit (416-D002, D95L-7559-A) into the reservoir. See Fig 1.
- Apply and maintain maximum vacuum. Cycle the steering wheel fully to the left and right 10 times. Release the vacuum and remove the vacuum pump.
- Fill the power steering reservoir. Start the engine. Reinstall the vacuum pump. Apply and maintain maximum vacuum.
- Cycle the steering wheel fully to the left and right 10 times. Stop the engine, release the vacuum, and remove the vacuum pump.
- Lower the vehicle. Install the power steering reservoir cap. Check for fluid leaks at all of the connections. If the power steering fluid shows signs of air, repeat this procedure.
CAUTION:
DO NOT overfill the power steering pump reservoir.
CAUTION:
CAUTION: DO NOT hold the steering wheel against the stops for more than 3-5 seconds at a time. Damage to the power steering pump can occur.