Finding the Ford Power Steering Seal Leak

Ford utilizes hydraulic to power up the steering system by providing pressure generated in the pump. Over time, rubber and the linings used to connect the steering system wear out due to pressure or exposure to dirt which degrades the components eventually resulting to a Ford power steering seal leak. Low steering fluid volume results to increases pressure on the pump and rack usually noticed as a whine sound coming from the engine when making a turn. Since the steering system involves various components, you will need to examine which component is leaking and repair or replace it. These are key points you should not overlook when examining power fluid leakage.

Pressure Line Connections

Since the line connections are made of thick rubber, you should carefully examine them for any crack. When examining Ford Power steering seal leak, follow the pressure lines from the pump down to the rack. However, cracks are prone where the line are coupled to the solid components of the tank or rack. If you have had the lines replaced previously, there is a possibility they are loose and needs tightening. Use your hand to feel for any sharp kinks, rips or tears. If the hose is damaged at the far end, you can cut it carefully and reuse it.

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Main Pressure Pump

Power steering pump has valves fitted with seals. Dirt and small debris may find their way into the system resulting to Ford power steering seal leak. The connection becomes loose and the power steering fluid starts to leak. Additionally, the shaft connecting the pump to the pulley may damage the pump as a result of worn out bearings. You will most probably find a thick red fluid escaping behind the pulley that connects the shaft to the power steering pump.

Power Steering Rack

When examining Ford Power steering seal leak, be sure to scrutinize the rack and it’s power line connections. The rack and its seal are exposed to road dirt which may compromise their quality. To add on that, the rack shaft wears out due to constant movement which is aggravated by dirt which leaves small channels on the shaft. Pay close attention to the following areas: the point where the steering column and gears are connected, the point where the pitman is attached to the engine(bottom) and where the rod is attached to the rack.

After finding the component which is responsible for the fluid leak, you can either decide to repair the damage yourself or take the car to a qualified mechanic to have it repaired. This greatly depends on the damaged component or the extent of damage. However, you should have Ford power steering seal kit for you to be in a position to repair any leakage.

Factors to Consider

Age of your vehicle

If your car is 5 to 10 years old, perhaps you should consider replacing the whole power steering system. This because, all the components may be worn out and replacing one won’t give the desired result. Additionally, replacing a whole unit like the pump is easier than repairing it.

The Component That Requires Repair

If the hoses are damaged, it is easier to repair or replace them. However, if the pump or the rack gets damaged, you should consider replacing it with as a whole unit rather than repairing it. Repairing the pump is very difficult and may offer short time service before it starts leaking again.
After you have had your Ford power steering seal leak repaired, you should test it to see if the system is completely air tight. You can do this by having a helper turn the steering wheel. Observe the connection lines and the reservoir tank for any bubbles. If you see no bubbles, it indicates the system has been restored to its required working condition.

You should have a mechanic observe the system for you if you find it tiresome. Have any damage repaired early before it gets worse. Be sure to buy spare parts from qualified Ford dealers too.

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