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Power Steering System Flushing

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford RV Cutaway, 2003 Ford Econoline, 2003 Ford E550 Super Duty, 2003 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2003 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
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 powertrain control module (PCM) relay to disable the vehicle.
    Fig 1: Removing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Relay
    G03461930Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  2. Remove the reservoir from the reservoir bracket.
    Fig 2: Removing Reservoir From Reservoir Bracket
    G03461931Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  3. Remove the reservoir bracket.
    Fig 3: Removing Reservoir Bracket
    G03461932Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  4. Disconnect the power steering return hose (3A713). Plug the reservoir.
    Fig 4: Disconnecting Power Steering Return Hose
    G03461933Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  5. Attach an extension hose between the power steering return hose and an empty container.
  6. Raise the front wheels off the floor.
  7. Fill the reservoir.
    • Use Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or equivalent MERCON® fluid.
    Fig 5: Filling Power Steering Reservoir
    G03461934Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
    8. 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 6: Turning Steering Wheel From Side-To-Side
    G03461935Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  8. 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.
  9. Lower the vehicle.
  10. Disconnect the extension hose from the power steering return hose. Remove the plug. Attach the power steering return hose to the reservoir.
    Fig 7: Attaching Power Steering Return Hose
    G03461936Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  11. Install the reservoir bracket.
    Fig 8: Installing Reservoir Bracket
    G03461937Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  12. Install the reservoir to the bracket.
    Fig 9: Installing Reservoir To Bracket
    G03461938Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
    13. CAUTION: Do not overfill reservoir.
    Fig 10: Checking Fluid Level
    G03461939Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  13. Fill the reservoir.
    • Use Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or equivalent MERCON® fluid.
  14. Install the powertrain control module (PCM) relay.
    Fig 11: Installing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Relay
    G03461940Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
    15. 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 12: Turning Steering Wheel From Stop-To-Stop
    G03461941Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  15. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop.
    16. 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.
    Fig 13: Checking Power Steering Fluid Level
    G03461942Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  16. Check the power steering fluid level.
    • Use Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or equivalent MERCON® fluid.
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