Mustang GT V8-4.6L SOHC VIN X (1998)
Power Steering Line/Hose: Service and Repair
Hose Fittings, Pressure and Return Line at Gear and Pump
If a leak occurs between the tubing and tube nut, replace the power steering pressure hose/power steering return hose as an assembly. If a leak occurs
between the tube nut and the aluminum steering gear housing or power steering pump outlet fitting, replace the seal. The following procedure should
be used:
1. Check fittings to determine which fitting is leaking and whether leak is between tube and tube nut or between tube nut and steering gear housing or
power steering pump outlet fitting.
2. If leak is between tube nut and steering gear housing or power steering pump outlet fitting, check to make sure nut is tightened to 27-34 Nm
(20-25 ft. lbs.).
CAUTION: DO NOT over-tighten. If tube nuts are tightened beyond specification, stripping of housing threads may occur and bores may
concave.
3. If leak continues or if leak is between tube and tube nut, remove power steering pressure hose/power steering return hose.
4. Unscrew tube nut and inspect plastic seal washer. Always replace pressure line plastic seal washer at power steering rack and pinion steering gear,
and return line plastic washer at power rack and pinion steering gear or power steering pump outlet when power steering pressure hose/power
steering return hose is removed. To facilitate assembly of new plastic seal washer, a tapered shaft may be required to stretch washer, so it may be
slipped over tube nut threads.
5. The O-ring cannot be serviced with this design. If leak is due to the O-ring, replace the power steering pressure hose/power steering return hose
assembly.
6. Connect tube nuts and tighten to 27-34 Nm (20-25 ft. lbs.). Install plastic strap to retain power steering pressure hose and power steering return
hose to power steering left turn pressure hose.
The quick connect fittings may disengage if not fully assembled, if the snap ring is missing, or if the tube nut or the hose end is not machined properly.
Engage fittings and pull to ensure proper engagement.
If the fitting disengages, replace the power steering pressure hose/power steering return hose assembly. The fitting is fully engaged only when the
power steering pressure hose/power steering return hose will not pull out. To test for positive engagement, the system should be properly filled, the
engine started, and the steering wheel cycled from lock-to-lock. Service power steering pressure hose/power steering return hose assemblies have tube
nuts, snap rings and O-rings already connected.
