Power Steering System Purging

Fig 1: Identifying Steering System Special Tool (Vacuum Tester)

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Fig 2: Identifying Material Specification Chart

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: 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 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.

Fig 3: Removing Fluid Reservoir Cap And Checking Fluid

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove the fluid reservoir cap and check the fluid.
Tightly insert the stopper of the vacuum pump into the fluid reservoir.

Fig 4: Inserting Stopper Of Vacuum Pump Into Fluid Reservoir
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Start the vehicle.
Apply maximum vacuum for a minimum of three minutes at idle. Maintain maximum vacuum with the source.

Fig 5: Applying Maximum Vacuum For Minimum Into Fluid Reservoir
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Release the vacuum and remove the vacuum source.
Add fluid to the appropriate level.
Reinstall the vacuum source and apply vacuum.

Fig 6: Reinstalling Vacuum Source And Applying Vacuum Into Fluid Reservoir
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel in the far left or right position or damage to the power steering can result.

Cycle the steering wheel from stop-to-stop every 30 seconds for approximately 5 minutes.
Remove the vacuum source from the fluid reservoir.

Fig 7: Removing Vacuum Source From Fluid Reservoir
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Do not fill with the engine running.

Turn the engine off. Check the fluid level and fill to the full warm level. Check for leaks at all connections.
- Install the fluid reservoir cap.
Start the engine. If there is any sign of aeration or if the fluid level in the reservoir drops more than 3/8 inch, turn the engine off, and repeat the procedure.