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System Flushing

WARNING: Do not mix oil types. Any mixture or any unapproved oil can lead to seal deterioration and leaks. A leak can ultimately cause loss of fluid, which can result in a loss of power steering assist.
  1. Remove the ENGINE fuse to disable the vehicle.
    Fig 1: Identifying Engine Fuse
    G01370549Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  2. Disconnect the power steering return hose. Plug the reservoir.
    Fig 2: Disconnecting Power Steering Return Hose
    G01370550Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  3. Attach an extension hose between the power steering return hose and an empty container.
  4. Raise the front wheels off the floor; for additional information, refer to JACKING & HOISTING .
  5. Fill the reservoir.
    • Use Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or equivalent MERCON® fluid.
    Fig 3: Identifying Reservoir Tank
    G01370551Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  6. CAUTION: Do not crank the engine for more than 15 seconds at a time. Allow the starter to cool for 1 minute before cranking again. Premature starter failure can occur.
    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.
    Fig 4: Turning Steering Wheel
    G01370552Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  7. Turn the steering wheel from stop to stop while cranking the engine until the fluid exiting the power steering return hose is clear of all contamination and debris.
    • Add Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or MERCON® equivalent as needed.
  8. Lower the vehicle.
  9. Disconnect the extension hose from the power steering return hose. Remove the plug. Attach the power steering return hose to the reservoir.
    Fig 5: Attaching Power Steering Return Hose To Reservoir
    G01370553Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  10. CAUTION: Do not overfill the reservoir.
    Fig 6: Identifying Reservoir Tank
    G01370554Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  11. Fill the reservoir.
    • Use Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or equivalent MERCON® fluid.
  12. Install the ENGINE fuse.
    Fig 7: Identifying Engine Fuse
    G01370555Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  13. 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.
    Fig 8: Turning Steering Wheel
    G01370556Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  14. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop.
  15. NOTE: If the power steering system is noisy and accompanied by evidence of aerated fluid it will be necessary to purge the power steering system.
  16. Check the power steering fluid level.
    • Fill the reservoir.
    • Use Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or equivalent MERCON® fluid.