Inspection & Verification

CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel at the stops for an extended amount of time. Damage to the power steering pump will result.

NOTE: Make the following preliminary check Before repairing the steering system.

Verify the customer concern by operating the steering system.
Inspect the tires. Check tire pressure, verify that all tires are sized to specification, and/or inspect the tires for damage or uneven wear.
Check drive belt and tension. See 1999 COOLING SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS & DRIVE BELT ROUTING or 2000 SPECIFICATIONS & DRIVE BELT ROUTING -- TRUCKS .
Fluid level check. Verify that the power steering fluid level is at the full (F) mark. Add Motorcraft MECRON® Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or MECRON® equivalent.
Verify that there is no air in the power steering system. Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature. turn the steering wheel to the left and right several times without hitting the stops. If any air bubbles are present, See PURGING THE STEERING SYSTEM .
With the ignition switch in the OFF position, wipe off the power steering pump, power steering pressure hose, power steering return hose, power steering fluid cooler and steering gear. With the engine running, turn the steering wheel from stop to stop several times. Do not hold steering wheel at stops. Check for leaks. Repair as necessary if any leaks are observed.
Turning effort check. See TURNING EFFORT under DIAGNOSIS & TESTING.
Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical damage, check the following:
- Loose tie rod ends.
- Loose suspension components.
- Loose steering column shaft universal joints.
- Loose steering gear mounting bolts.
- Binding or misaligned steering column.
- Power steering pump.
- Bent or pinched power steering lines.
If an obvious cause for an observed or reported malfunction is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding to the next step.
If the fault is not visually evident, determine the symptom to repair vehicle.