Special Tool(s)

Fig 1: Identifying Special Tool(s) - Vacuum Pump

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: If the air is not purged from the power steering system correctly, 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.

A whine heard from the power steering pump may be caused by air in the system. The power steering purging procedure must be performed under the following conditions:

Prior to any component repair for which power steering noise complaints are accompanied by evidence of aerated fluid.
After replacement of any power steering system component (gear, hose, etc.).

Remove the power steering fluid reservoir cap.

Fig 2: Identifying Power Steering Fluid Reservoir Cap
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Tightly insert the stopper of vacuum pump into the power steering fluid reservoir.

Fig 3: Identifying Vacuum Pump Stopper
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Start the engine and allow it to idle.
Using the special tool, apply the maximum vacuum for a minimum of three minutes with the engine at idle. Maintain the maximum vacuum with vacuum pump.

Fig 4: Identifying Maximum Vacuum
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Release the vacuum source and remove vacuum pump.
Add fluid to the center mark of the power steering fluid reservoir.

Fig 5: Identifying Center Mark Of Power Steering Fluid Reservoir
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the special tool, reinstall vacuum pump stopper and apply maximum vacuum.

Fig 6: Identifying 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 will occur.

Cycle the steering wheel from stop to stop every 30 seconds for approximately five minutes.
Stop the engine, release the vacuum source, and remove vacuum pump.

Fig 7: Identifying Vacuum Pump Stopper
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Add power steering fluid if necessary. Install the power steering fluid reservoir cap.

Fig 8: Identifying Power Steering Reservoir Cap
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 will occur.

Start the engine and cycle the steering wheel from stop to stop every 30 seconds for approximately five minutes.
Check for power steering fluid leaks at all connections. If the power steering fluid still shows signs of aeration, repeat this procedure.