Power Steering System Purging - CII Power Steering Pump
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.
Special Tool(s)
Material
MATERIAL SPECIFICATION
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose (ATF) Transmission Fluid XT-2-QDX | MERCON® |
CAUTION:
If the air is not purged from the power steering system correctly, premature power steering pump failure could result. This condition can occur on pre-delivery vehicles with evidence of aerated fluid or on vehicles that have had steering component repairs.
- Remove the reservoir cap. Check the fluid.
- Remove the cap and install the special tools.
- Start the vehicle.
- Apply maximum vacuum and maintain it for a minimum of three minutes with the engine speed set at idle.
- Release the vacuum and remove the vacuum pump.
- Fill the reservoir.
- Reinstall the vacuum pump. Apply and maintain maximum vacuum.
- Cycle the steering wheel fully to the left and right every 30 seconds for approximately five minutes.
- Stop the engine, release the vacuum, and remove the vacuum pump.
- Install the reservoir cap.
- Check for fluid leaks at all of the connections. If the power steering fluid shows signs of air, repeat this procedure.
NOTE:
A whine heard from the power steering pump may be caused by air in the system. The power steering purge procedure must be carried out prior to any component repair for which power steering noise complaints are accompanied by evidence of aerated fluid.
NOTE:
If fluid is drawn into the vacuum pump, use the inline fluid reservoir contained in the vacuum pump kit.
CAUTION:
Do not overfill the reservoir.
CAUTION:
Do not hold the steering wheel against the stops for more than three to five seconds at a time. Damage to the power steering pump could occur.