Inspection and Verification: Notes
WARNING: This page is about a different car, 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:
Do not hold the steering wheel (3600) at the stops for an extended amount of time. Damage to the power steering pump will result.
NOTE:
Make the following preliminary check before repairing the steering system:
- Verify the customer concern by operating the steering system.
- Inspect Tires
- Check tire pressure.
- Verify that all tires are sized to specification. Refer to WHEELS & TIRES - EXCURSION & F250-F550 SUPER DUTY PICKUP .
- Inspect the tires for damage or uneven wear.
- Belt and Tensioner Check
- Refer to ACCESSORY DRIVE for diagnosis and testing of the accessory drive system.
- Fluid Level Check
- Verify that the power steering fluid level is at the full (F) mark. Add Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or MERCON® equivalent.
- 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 POWER STEERING SYSTEM PURGING - CII POWER STEERING PUMP or POWER STEERING SYSTEM PURGING - CIII POWER STEERING PUMP .
- External Leak Check
- With the ignition switch at OFF, wipe off the power steering pump, power steering pressure hose (3A719), power steering return hose, power steering fluid cooler (3D746) 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.
- Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical damage; refer to the following chart.
Visual Inspection Chart
Mechanical
- Loose tie rod ends
- Loose suspension components
- Loose steering column shaft universal joints
- Loose steering gear mounting bolts
- Binding or misaligned steering column
- Power steering pump
- Bent or pinched power steering lines
- If an obvious cause for an observed or reported malfunction is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding to the next step.
- If the fault is not visually evident, determine the symptom. GO to SYMPTOM CHART .