Power Steering System Purging

Fig 1: Special Tool(s)

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Fig 2: Material

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

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 purge 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 reservoir cap. Check the fluid.
Raise the front wheels off the floor.
Tightly insert the stopper of the vacuum pump into the reservoir.

Fig 3: Attaching Vacuum Pump Into Reservoir
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Apply and maintain maximum vacuum.

Fig 4: Applying Maximum Vacuum
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Cycle the steering wheel fully to the left and right 10 times.
Release the vacuum and remove the vacuum pump.

CAUTION: Do not overfill the power steering pump reservoir.

Fig 5: Checking Power Steering Fluid Level

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Fill the reservoir.
Start the engine.
Reinstall the vacuum pump. Apply and maintain maximum vacuum.

Fig 6: Applying Maximum Vacuum
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

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 can occur.

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 reservoir cap.
Check for fluid leaks at all of the connections. If the power steering fluid shows signs of air, repeat this procedure.