Power Steering System Purging

Fig 1: Identifying Special Tools

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Material

MATERIAL SPECIFICATION

Item	Specification
Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose (ATF) Transmission Fluid XT-2-QDX	MERCON®

NOTE: If the air is not purged from the power steering system correctly, pump failure can result. This condition can occur on pre-delivery vehicles with evidence of aerated fluid or on vehicles that have had steering component repairs.

A whine heard from the power steering pump may be caused by air in the system. The power steering purging procedure must be carried out under the following conditions:

Prior to any component repair for which power steering noise complaints are accompanied by evidence of aerated fluid.
After replacement of any power steering system component (gear, hose, etc.).

Remove the cap and install the special tools.

Fig 2: Removing Cap And Installing Special Tools
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Start the engine and allow it to idle.
Using the special tool, apply maximum vacuum for a minimum of three minutes with the engine at idle. Maintain the maximum vacuum with vacuum pump.

Fig 3: Applying Maximum Vacuum Using Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Release the vacuum source and remove the vacuum pump.
Add fluid to the power steering fluid reservoir.

Fig 4: Adding Fluid To Power Steering Fluid Reservoir
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the special tool, reinstall the vacuum pump stopper and apply maximum vacuum.

Fig 5: Reinstalling Vacuum Pump Stopper And Applying Maximum Vacuum
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

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.

Cycle the steering wheel from stop to stop every 30 seconds for approximately five minutes.
Stop the engine, release the vacuum source, and remove the vacuum pump.
Add power steering fluid if necessary. Install the power steering fluid reservoir cap.

Fig 6: Filling Power Steering Fluid
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

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.

Start the engine and cycle the steering wheel from stop to stop every 30 seconds for approximately five minutes.
Check for power steering fluid leaks at all connections. If the power steering fluid still shows signs of aeration, repeat this procedure.