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Home >> Ford >> 2003 >> Explorer 4.6 W, AWD >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Steering >> Power Steering >> Steering System >> General Procedures >> Power Steering System Flushing
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Power Steering System Flushing

Fig 1: Identifying Material Specification Chart For Flushing System
G01271014Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
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 ignition coil fuse to disable the vehicle.
    • burrs or foreign material around the rack and pinion actuator in the lock cylinder housing.
    • insufficient lube on the actuator. (Do not apply lubricant to the inside of the ignition switch.)
    • binding ignition switch.

    If the steering wheel lock is engaged with the wheels loaded against a curb, high effort will be necessary to turn the key from LOCK. Turn the steering wheel to either side of the lock to unload the system.

    Ignition Switch Continuity Check 

    Refer to appropriate Wiring Diagrams for schematic and connector information.

    Multifunction Switch 

    Refer to appropriate Wiring Diagrams for schematic and connector information.

  2. Disconnect the power steering return hose. Plug the reservoir.
    Fig 2: Disconnecting Power Steering Return Hose
    G01271015Courtesy 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.
  5. Fill the reservoir.
    Fig 3: Locating Power Steering Reservoir Fluid Marks
    G01271016Courtesy 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 can occur.
  6. 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 foreign material.
  7. Lower the vehicle.
  8. Disconnect the extension hose from the power steering return hose. Remove the plug. Attach the power steering return hose to the reservoir.
    Fig 4: Disconnecting Extension Hose From Power Steering Return Hose
    G01271017Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
    9. CAUTION: Do not overfill the reservoir.
    Fig 5: Locating Power Steering Reservoir Fluid Marks
    G01271018Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  9. Fill the reservoir.
  10. Install the ignition coil fuse.
    11. 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.
  11. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop.
    12. NOTE: If the power steering system is noisy and is accompanied by evidence of aerated fluid, it can be necessary to purge the power steering system.
    Fig 6: Checking Power Steering Fluid Level
    G01271019Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  12. Check the power steering fluid level.
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