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Power Steering System Flushing

WARNING: Do not mix fluid types. Any mixture of an unapproved fluid could lead to seal deterioration and leaks. A leak could ultimately cause loss of fluid, which could result in a loss of power steering assist.
  1. Remove the coil on plug (COP) Fuse 12 in the underhood auxiliary junction box (AJB) to disable the engine from starting.
  2. Disconnect the power steering return hose.
    1. Compress and move the hose clamp.
    2. Disconnect the power steering return hose and plug the fitting to the reservoir.
    Fig 1: Disconnecting Power Steering Return Hose
    G01105233Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  3. Attach an extension hose between the power steering reservoir port and an empty container.
    Fig 2: Attaching Extension Hose
    G01105234Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
    4. WARNING: Do not mix fluid types. Any mixture of an unapproved fluid could lead to seal deterioration and leaks. A leak could ultimately cause loss of fluid, which could result in a loss of power steering assist.
    Fig 3: Filling Power Steering Reservoir
    G01105235Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  4. Fill the power steering fluid reservoir.
    • Use Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose (ATF) Transmission Fluid XT-2-QDX or equivalent meeting Ford specification MERCON®.
  5. Raise the front wheels off the ground. For additional information, see JACKING & HOISTING .
    6. CAUTION: Do not operate the starter motor for more than 10 seconds at a time. Damage to the starter motor could result.
  6. Turn the steering wheel from stop to stop while cranking the engine until the fluid exiting the extension hose is clean.
  7. Lower the vehicle.
  8. Disconnect the extension hose from the power steering return hose and attach the power steering return hose to the power steering fluid reservoir.
    9. WARNING: Do not mix fluid types. Any mixture of an unapproved fluid could lead to seal deterioration and leaks. A leak could ultimately cause loss of fluid, which could result in a loss of power steering assist.
    CAUTION: Do not overfill the power steering fluid reservoir.
  9. Fill the power steering fluid reservoir.
    • Use Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose (ATF) Transmission Fluid XT-2-QDX or equivalent meeting Ford specification MERCON®.
  10. Install the COP 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 will occur.
  11. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from stop to stop.
    12. NOTE: If power steering is noisy and accompanied by evidence of aerated fluid, it will be necessary to purge the power steering system. See POWER STEERING SYSTEM PURGING .
  12. Check the power steering fluid level.
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