Preliminary Procedures

Make the following preliminary checks before power steering disassembly.

AIR BLEEDING
If bubbles are present in the power steering fluid, bleed the system as follows:
1. Fill power steering pump reservoir.
2. Run engine until fluid reaches normal operating temperature of 74-79°C (165-175°F).
3. CAUTION: Do not hold steering wheel in the far left or right position for more than five seconds at a time, or damage to power steering pump may result.

Turn steering wheel all the way to the left and right several times.
4. Check fluid level.
5. If air is still trapped in system, refer to Purging Power Steering System of Air. Air Purge

FLUID LEVEL
1. Idle engine for two to three minutes. Turn steering wheel all the way to the left and right several times to warm fluid to 43-49°C (110-120°F).
2. CAUTION: Do not overfill power steering oil reservoir.

Check fluid level in the power steering oil reservoir. Fluid level should be at the COLD FULL mark. If level is low, add Motorcraft MERCON Multi-Purpose (ATF) Transmission Fluid XT-2-QDX or equivalent meeting Ford MERCON specification.

PUMP BELT
Replace broken, glazed or worn drive belt.