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Steering System - General Information Ford Explorer Sport Trac II

Manual & Power Steering 3 illustrations ~3533 words

Material

ItemSpecificationFill Capacity
Dye-Lite® ATF/Power Steering Fluid Leak Detection Dye 164-R3701 (Rotunda)
MERCON® V Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-5-QM (or XT-5-QMC) (US); CXT-5-LM12 (Canada)MERCON® V

Material

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

ItemSpecification
Power Steering Gear
Tie-rod articulation torque1-3 N.m
Turning effort4.5 kg (10 lb)
Turns lock-to-lock3.70
Power Steering Pump
Flow rate @ 74°-80°C (165°-175°F), engine speed set at 1,500 RPM and power steering analyzer set at 345 kPa (50 psi)11.4-13.2L/min (2.5-2.9 gpm)
Flow rate-minimum @ 74°-80°C (165°-175°F), power steering analyzer set at 5,102 kPa (750 psi) and engine speed set at idle4.35L/min (1.15 gpm)
Maximum pressure @ 74°-80°C (165°-175°F) and engine speed set at 2,100 RPM1,172 kPa (170 psi)
Relief pressure1,400-1,530 @ 500 RPM
Power Steering Purge Vacuum
Air purge vacuum68-85 kPa (20-25 in-Hg)

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

The power steering system consists of the following components

  1. Power steering pump
  2. Power steering fluid reservoir
  3. Steering gear
  4. Power steering lines
  5. Steering column
  6. Steering column shaft

The power steering system transfers driver inputs at the steering wheel to the front wheels of the vehicle. The steering column, hydraulic system and linkages that transfer these driver inputs make up the steering system. Gearing and hydraulic assist are used to significantly reduce steering efforts.

For information on the power steering fluid reservoir, power steering pump, power steering lines and steering gear, refer to POWER STEERING article.

For information on the steering wheel, steering column and steering column shaft, refer to STEERING COLUMN article.

Special Tools Illustration Tool Name Tool Number 100W/12 Volt DC UV Lamp 164-R0751 Evacuation Cap, Power Steering 211-265 or equivalent Vacuum Pump Kit 416-D002 (D95L-7559-A) or equivalent Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) and Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) software with appropriate hardware, or equivalent scan tool

Scheme 1

Scheme 1: Steering System
Scheme 1: Steering System

Scheme 2

Scheme 2
Scheme 2
ItemSpecification
Dye-Lite® ATF/Power Steering Fluid Leak Detection Dye 164-R3701 (Rotunda)
MERCON® V Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-5-QM (or XT-5-QMC) (US); CXT-5-LM12 (Canada)MERCON® V

Material

Principles of Operation

Power Steering - The power steering system uses a vane-type pump to move the fluid from the reservoir to the steering gear and through the rest of the steering hydraulic system. The power steering pump is mounted to the engine and driven by the engine accessory drive belt. Power steering fluid flows into the pump from the reservoir. The power steering fluid is trapped between the pump vanes and moved to the high-pressure side of the pump, creating a flow of fluid. The restriction of this flow by the steering gear creates the pressure that provides the steering assist. A combined pressure relief/flow valve is built into the pump to control the maximum pressure and flow provided to the steering system. This action prevents damage to the system and provides the correct level of assist during all engine speeds. While under pressure, the power steering fluid flows through the high-pressure power steering line to the steering gear. The fluid exits the gear and flows through the return line, cooler and finally to the reservoir. The reservoir slows the fluid, allows air to escape and filters the fluid before returning it to the pump.

Inspection and Verification

  1. Verify the customer concern.
  2. Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical damage. VISUAL INSPECTION CHART Mechanical Fluid level Tire pressure Tires Drive belt Drive belt tensioner Steering column alignment Tie-rod ends Suspension components Steering column shaft U-joints Steering column shaft bolts Power steering reservoir baffle Power steering reservoir screen Pressure lines, fittings or O-rings Power steering return hoses and clamps Steering gear Power steering pump Power Steering Pressure (PSP) switch
  3. Inspect the power steering fluid for the following conditions: Aeration or foam: Purge the power steering system. Refer to «Power Steering System Purging»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#steering-system-general-information__power-steering-system-purging) . Overheating or contamination: Flush the power steering system. Refer to «Power Steering System Flushing»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#steering-system-general-information__power-steering-system-flushing) .
  4. Check the fluid level and clean the power steering components. With the ignition OFF: check the power steering fluid level and add fluid as necessary. wipe off any visible signs of fluid or residue build up. NOTE: Do not hold the steering wheel at the stops for an extended amount of time. Damage to the power steering pump may occur. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop several times.
  5. Visually inspect the power steering hydraulic line/hose connections for leaks. If a leak is detected at a threaded fitting or clamp plate joint, tighten to specification. If the leak is still evident, visually inspect the O-rings or Teflon® seals. Install new O-rings or Teflon® seals as necessary. Refer to «POWER STEERING»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) article. If a leak is detected at a constant tension spring clamp, verify that the hose is not damaged and fully installed on the hose fitting. Make sure that the constant tension spring clamp is positioned 2 mm (0.078 in) from the end of the hose. If the leak remains, install a new constant tension spring clamp. If a leak is detected at a screw clamp joint, verify that the hose is fully installed on the hose fitting and the clamp is positioned 2 mm (0.078 in) from the end of the hose before tightening the screw clamp. If the leak remains, install a new screw clamp. Refer to «POWER STEERING»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) article. If a leak is detected at the Power Steering Pressure (PSP) switch, install a new switch as necessary.
  6. Visually inspect the power steering components for leaks. If a leak is detected in the pressure line or return hose, install a new hose. Refer to «POWER STEERING»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) article. If a leak is detected in the power steering pump, install a new power steering pump. Refer to «POWER STEERING»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) article. NOTE: On vehicles with rack-and-pinion steering gear, it may be necessary to remove the bellows boot clamp from the steering gear bellows boot to inspect for internal steering gear leaks. If a leak is detected in the steering gear, repair or install a new steering gear. Refer to «POWER STEERING»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) article. If a leak is detected in the power steering reservoir, install a new reservoir. Refer to «POWER STEERING»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) article.
  7. For information on power steering leak detection, refer to «Component Tests»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#steering-system-general-information) .
  8. If an obvious cause for an observed or reported concern is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding.
  9. If the cause is not visually evident, verify the symptom and Go to «Symptom Chart - Steering System»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#steering-system-general-information) or Go to «Symptom Chart - NVH»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#steering-system-general-information) .

Drift/Pull

Pull is described as a tugging sensation felt by the hands on the steering wheel that must be overcome to keep the vehicle going straight.

Drift describes what a vehicle with this condition does with the hands off the steering wheel.

  1. A vehicle-related drift/pull on a flat road can cause a consistent deviation from the straight-ahead path and require constant steering input in the opposite direction to counteract the effect.
  2. Drift/pull can be induced by conditions external to the vehicle, such as wind or road camber.

Excessive Steering Wheel Play

Excessive steering wheel play is a condition in which there is too much steering wheel movement before the wheels move. A small amount of steering wheel free play is considered normal.

Lack of Assist or Inconsistent Assist

Lack of assist or inconsistent assist is experienced when the steering wheel effort is higher than normal. Hard steering can remain constant through the full turn or occur near the end of a turn. It is important to know the difference between hard steering/lack of assist and poor returnability/sticky steering.

Hard steering or lack of assist can result from either hydraulic or mechanical conditions. It is extremely important to know if this concern occurs during driving or during high-effort parking maneuvers.

Poor Returnability/Sticky Steering

Poor returnability and sticky steering is used to describe the poor return of the steering wheel to center after a turn or steering correction is completed.

Wander

Wander is the tendency of the vehicle to require frequent, random left and right steering wheel corrections to maintain a straight path down a level road.

Symptom Chart - Steering System

ConditionPossible SourcesAction
Steering has lack of assist or inconsistent assistContaminated power steering fluid Steering gear Power steering pump Restricted power steering lines/hosesGo to Pinpoint Test A .
Excessive steering wheel playSteering gear Steering column shaft/U-joints Steering linkageGo to Pinpoint Test B .
Steering system drift/pull/wanderSteering column shaft/U-joints Steering gear mounts Steering gear valveGo to Pinpoint Test C .
Poor returnability/sticky steeringBinding steering column shaft/U-jointsINSTALL a new steering column shaft. REFER to STEERING COLUMN article.
Loose, worn or damaged steering linkageGo to Steering Linkage Test ,Component Test.
Binding suspension componentsTo continue the suspension diagnosis, REFER to SUSPENSION SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION article.
Binding steering column bearing(s)INSTALL a new steering column. REFER to STEERING COLUMN article.
Binding dash boot sealINSTALL a new dash boot seal. REFER to STEERING COLUMN article.
Steering gearINSTALL a new steering gear as necessary. REFER to POWER STEERING article.

Symptom Chart - Steering System

Symptom Chart - NVH

Note. NVH symptoms should be identified using the diagnostic tools that are available. For a list of these tools, an explanation of their uses and a glossary of common terms, refer to NOISE, VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS article. Since it is possible any one of multiple systems may be the cause of a symptom, it may be necessary to use a process of elimination type of diagnostic approach to pinpoint the responsible system. If this is not the causal system for the symptom, refer back to NOISE, VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS article for the next likely system and continue diagnosis.

ConditionPossible SourcesAction
Steering system cold start noiseBlockage in the power steering fluid reservoir caused by power steering fluid contaminationNOTE: Some noise during an extremely cold start (-12.2°C [-10°F]) is normal and should improve as the steering system warms up (usually within 60 seconds). NOTE: It may be necessary to remove the power steering fluid reservoir to flush contamination trapped in the reservoir screen. CHECK the power steering fluid reservoir for contamination. FLUSH the power steering system as necessary. REFER to Power Steering System Flushing .
Air in the steering hydraulic system (aerated fluid)CHECK for leaks in the system. REFER to Power Steering Leak Test Component Test in this article. PURGE the air from the system. REFER to Power Steering System Purging .
Steering grunt or shudder - occurs when turning into or out of a turn at low speeds (temperature sensitive)Air in the steering hydraulic system (aerated fluid)CHECK for leaks in the system. REFER to Power Steering Leak Test Component Test. PURGE the air from the system. REFER to Power Steering System Purging .
Steering gear or power steering hosesGo to Steering Gear Grunt/Shudder Component Test in this article.
Steering system clonk - hydraulic knocking soundAir in the steering hydraulic system (aerated fluid)NOTE: Some amount of clonk noise is considered acceptable. If in doubt of the acceptability, compare to another vehicle. CHECK for leaks in the system. REFER to Power Steering Leak Test Component Test in this article. PURGE the air from the system. REFER to Power Steering System Purging .
Power steering pump moan - loud humming noise occurs when the steering wheel is rotated to the stop position. Produces a 120-600 Hz frequency that changes with RPMLow fluid and/or air in the steering hydraulic system (aerated fluid)CHECK for leaks in the system. REFER to Power Steering Leak Test Component Test. PURGE the air from the system. REFER to Power Steering System Purging . If a pump moan still exists, INSTALL a new power steering pump. REFER to POWER STEERING article.
Power steering fluid reservoir or screen is blocked or damagedINSPECT the reservoir. FLUSH or INSTALL a new reservoir as necessary.
Power steering line/hose grounded to chassisINSPECT the power steering lines/hoses. REPAIR as necessary.
Power steering pump brackets loose or misalignedCHECK bolts, brackets and bracket alignment. TIGHTEN bolts to specification. REPAIR or INSTALL new brackets as necessary. REFER to POWER STEERING article.
Steering gear isolatorsINSPECT the isolators for wear or damage. REPAIR as necessary.
Steering gear clunk - occurs only while cornering over a bump (can be temperature sensitive)Steering gearINSPECT the steering gear for loose mounting bolts. TIGHTEN to specification as necessary. REFER to POWER STEERING article.
Feedback (rattle, chuckle or knocking noise in the steering gear) - roughness is felt in the steering wheel when the vehicle is driven over rough surfacesSteering column shaft/U-joints damaged or wornINSTALL a new steering column shaft. REFER to STEERING COLUMN article.
Loose, damaged or worn tie-rod endsINSPECT and INSTALL new tie-rod ends as necessary. Go to Steering Linkage Test , Component Test.
Steering gear insulators or mounting bolts loose or damagedTIGHTEN the bolts to specification or INSTALL new bolts as necessary. REFER to POWER STEERING article.
Steering column shaft bolts are looseTIGHTEN the bolts to specification. REFER to STEERING COLUMN article.
Steering column damaged or wornREPAIR or INSTALL a new steering column as necessary. REFER to STEERING COLUMN article.
Power steering hiss or whistleSteering column shaft-to-steering gear is binding or misalignedREPAIR or INSTALL a new steering column shaft as necessary. REFER to STEERING COLUMN article.
Grounded or loose steering column boot at the dash panelREPAIR as necessary.
Damaged or worn steering gear input shaft and valveREPAIR or INSTALL a new steering gear as necessary. REFER to POWER STEERING article.
Restricted power steering lines/hosesINSTALL new power steering lines/hoses as necessary. REFER to POWER STEERING article.
Steering column rattleLoose bolts or attaching bracketsTIGHTEN the bolts to specification.
Loose, worn or insufficiently lubricated column bearingsLUBRICATE bearings or INSTALL new steering column bearings or steering column as necessary. REFER to STEERING COLUMN article.
Steering shaft insulators damaged or wornINSTALL new insulators. REFER to STEERING COLUMN article.
Steering column shaft compressed or extendedINSPECT the rubber spider coupling for damage. INSTALL a new steering column shaft. REFER to STEERING COLUMN article.
Steering gear squeakIncorrect power steering fluid in systemIf incorrect power steering fluid is suspected, FLUSH the power steering system. REFER to Power Steering System Flushing . If noise persists after system flush, INSTALL a new steering gear. REFER to POWER STEERING article.
Steering gear rotary sealNOTE: VERIFY that the steering gear is the source of the noise. It may be necessary to replicate the customer operating conditions (fluid temperature, turning rate of steering wheel) to get the squeak to reoccur. INSTALL a new steering gear as necessary. REFER to POWER STEERING article.
Stone shield (if equipped)MAKE SURE that the stone shield is correctly installed and that it is not making contact with the steering shaft. REPOSITION stone shield or INSTALL a new stone shield as necessary.
Steering column squeak, cracks or grindsInsufficiently lubricated steering shaft bushingsLUBRICATE the steering shaft and shaft tube seals.
Loose or misaligned steering column shroudsTIGHTEN or ALIGN the steering column shrouds.
Steering wheel rubbing against steering column shroudsREPOSITION the steering column shrouds.
Upper or lower bearing sleeves out of positionREPOSITION the bearing sleeves.
Power steering pump noisyPower steering pumpINSTALL a new power steering pump as necessary. REFER to POWER STEERING article.
Power steering pump relief noisePower steering fluid flow into the bypass valve of the pump valve housing, with fluid temperature below 54°C (130°F)Acceptable condition.
Power steering pump whine noiseAerated fluidCHECK for a leak in the system. REFER to Power Steering Fluid Leak Test Component Test in this article. PURGE the air from the system. REFER to Power Steering System Purging .
Damaged power steering pumpINSTALL a new power steering pump as necessary. REFER to POWER STEERING article.
High speed shake or shimmy - occurs at high speedsWorn or damaged steering linkage componentsGo to Steering Linkage Test , Component Test.
NOTE
Some noise during an extremely cold start (-12.2°C [-10°F]) is normal and should improve as the steering system warms up (usually within 60 seconds).
NOTE
It may be necessary to remove the power steering fluid reservoir to flush contamination trapped in the reservoir screen.
NOTE
Some amount of clonk noise is considered acceptable. If in doubt of the acceptability, compare to another vehicle.
NOTE
VERIFY that the steering gear is the source of the noise. It may be necessary to replicate the customer operating conditions (fluid temperature, turning rate of steering wheel) to get the squeak to reoccur.

Symptom Chart - NVH

Pinpoint Test A: Steering Has Lack of Assist or Inconsistent Assist

Note. Hard steering or lack of assist is experienced when the steering wheel effort exceeds specifications. Hard steering can remain constant through the full turn, occur near the end of a turn or differ right to left. It is important to know the difference between hard steering/lack of assist and poor returnability/sticky steering.

This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following

  1. Power steering fluid contamination
  2. Steering gear
  3. Power steering pump
  4. Power steering hoses
  1. A1 CHECK FOR POWER STEERING FLUID CONTAMINATION Check the power steering fluid for contamination. Is the power steering fluid contaminated? YES : FLUSH the power steering system. REFER to «Power Steering System Flushing»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#steering-system-general-information__power-steering-system-flushing) . CHECK the system for normal operation. If assist concern still exists, go to A2 . NO : Go to A2 .
  2. A2 CHECK THE STEERING ASSIST WITH THE ENGINE RPM RAISED NOTE: Do not hold the steering wheel at the stops for an extended amount of time. Damage to the power steering pump may occur. Set the engine at 2,100 RPM and turn the steering wheel fully to the left and right. Is steering assist normal with the engine RPM raised? YES : INSTALL a new power steering pump. REFER to «POWER STEERING»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) article. NO : Go to A3 .
  3. A3 CHECK FOR A CHANGE OF ASSIST ON LEFT AND RIGHT TURNS With the engine at idle, turn the steering wheel fully to the left and to the right. Does the steering assist change when turning from right to left? YES : INSTALL a new steering gear. REFER to «POWER STEERING»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) article. NO : Go to A4 .
  4. A4 CHECK THE STEERING LINES AND HOSES FOR RESTRICTIONS Inspect the steering lines and hoses for damage, kinks or restrictions. Are the steering lines or hoses damaged, kinked or restricted? YES : INSTALL new lines or hoses as necessary. NO : Go to A5 .
  5. A5 MONITOR THE ENGINE RPM CHANGES NOTE: Do not hold the steering wheel at the stops for an extended amount of time. Damage to the power steering pump may occur. NOTE: Make sure that the vehicle is on a flat dry surface, all accessories are in the OFF position and that the steering system is at normal operating temperature. Connect the diagnostic tool. Start the engine. With the engine at idle, raise the power steering fluid temperature to 74-80°C (165-176°F) by rotating the steering wheel fully to the left and right several times. While monitoring the Engine Revolutions Per Minute (RPM) PID with the scan tool, turn the steering wheel quickly to the left stop position and then to the right stop position. Note the engine RPM during the turns. Does the engine RPM change (even temporarily) more than 30 RPM when turning the steering wheel? YES : INSTALL a new steering gear. REFER to «POWER STEERING»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) article. NO : INSTALL a new power steering pump. REFER to «POWER STEERING»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) article.

Pinpoint Test B: Excessive Steering Wheel Play

This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following

  1. Steering linkage
  2. Steering column shaft U-joints
  3. Steering gear
  1. B1 CHECK THE STEERING LINKAGE Carry out the Steering Linkage Component Test in this article. Is the steering linkage OK? YES : Go to B2 . NO : INSTALL new steering linkage components as necessary. Refer to the appropriate Steering System article for the procedure.
  2. B2 CHECK THE STEERING COLUMN SHAFT Inspect the steering column shaft U-joints and fasteners for looseness. Are the U-joints and fasteners OK? YES : INSTALL a new steering gear as necessary. REFER to «POWER STEERING»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) article. NO : TIGHTEN the steering column shaft fasteners or INSTALL a new steering column shaft. REFER to «STEERING COLUMN»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/steering-column/#steering-column) article.

Pinpoint Test C: Steering System Drift/Pull/Wander

This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following

  1. Steering gear
  2. Steering column shaft
  3. Steering column shaft U-joints
  4. Steering gear mounts
  1. C1 CHECK THE STEERING COLUMN SHAFT NOTE: Be sure to keep the clockspring centered when disconnecting the intermediate shaft. Refer to the appropriate Body article for the procedure. Check the steering column and shaft for grounding. Disconnect the steering column shaft at the steering column. Inspect the steering column shaft U-joints for looseness or wear. Are the steering column shaft U-joints OK? YES : Go to C2 . NO : INSTALL a new steering column shaft as necessary. REFER to «STEERING COLUMN»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/steering-column/#steering-column) article.
  2. C2 CHECK THE STEERING GEAR MOUNTING Check the steering gear mounts for looseness or wear. Are the steering gear mounts OK? YES : Go to C3 . NO : INSTALL a new steering gear as necessary. REFER to «POWER STEERING»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) article.
  3. C3 CHECK THE STEERING GEAR Carry out the Steering Gear Valve Component Test in this article. Is the steering gear valve OK? YES : REFER to «SUSPENSION SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/suspension-front/#suspension-system-general-information) article to diagnose suspension system drift/pull/wander. NO : REPAIR or INSTALL a new steering gear as necessary. REFER to «POWER STEERING»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) article.

Power Steering Fluid Leak Test

Note. This test should only be carried out if a leak in the system has not been detected during a thorough visual inspection. Refer to Inspection and Verification.

  1. Check the power steering fluid level. If necessary, add the specified power steering fluid.
  2. Remove the power steering pump reservoir cap and tightly install the Power Steering Evacuation Cap to the power steering pump reservoir.
  3. Install the Vacuum Pump Kit to the Power Steering Evacuation Cap.
  4. Using the Vacuum Pump Kit, apply 68-85 kPa (20-25 in-Hg) of vacuum to the power steering system.
  5. Observe the vacuum gauge for 30 seconds. If the vacuum gauge reading drops more than 3 kPa (0.88 in-Hg) a leak is present.
  6. Remove the Vacuum Pump Kit.
  7. Start the engine. With the engine at idle, raise the power steering fluid temperature to 74-80°C (165-176°F) by rotating the steering wheel fully to the left and right several times.
  8. Visually inspect the system for leaks. If a leak is evident, repair as necessary. If a leak is not evident, add the specified UV fluorescent tracer dye to the power steering fluid. Use 14.78 mL (1/2 oz) of dye solution for every 1.89L (2 qt) of power steering fluid.
  9. Start the engine. With the engine at idle, raise the power steering fluid temperature to 74-80°C (165-176°F) by rotating the steering wheel fully to the left and right several times.
  10. Using the 100W/12 Volt DC UV Lamp, inspect the system for traces of UV dye. Repair as necessary.

Steering Gear Valve Test

  1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. Refer to «JACKING AND LIFTING»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/hoistjack/#jacking-and-lifting) article. Raise the vehicle until the front wheels are off the ground.
  2. Start the engine. If the steering wheel rotates in either direction (with no hand input), install a new steering gear. Refer to «POWER STEERING»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) article.

Steering Gear Grunt/Shudder Test

  1. Start and run the vehicle to operating temperature.
  2. Set engine idle speed to 1,200 RPM.
  3. Rotate the steering wheel to the RH stop, then turn the steering wheel 90 degrees back from that position. Slowly turn the steering wheel back and forth approximately one-twelfth of a full turn.
  4. Turn the steering wheel another 90 degrees. Slowly turn the steering wheel back and forth approximately one-twelfth of a full turn.
  5. Repeat the test with the power steering fluid at different temperatures.
  6. If a light grunt is heard or a low (50-200 Hz) shudder is present, this is a normal steering system condition.
  7. If a loud grunt is heard or a strong shudder is felt, purge the power steering system. Refer to «Power Steering System Purging»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#steering-system-general-information__power-steering-system-purging) . If a loud grunt or strong shudder still exists, check the power steering lines/hoses for restrictions or damage and repair as necessary. Refer to «POWER STEERING»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) article. If the lines/hoses are OK, install a new steering gear. Refer to «POWER STEERING»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system) article.

Steering Linkage Test

  1. With the vehicle on the ground and the parking brake applied, start the vehicle and carry out the following: Have an assistant rotate the steering wheel back and forth 360 degrees and watch for relative motion of the studs in the steering linkage ball sockets. Watch for loose steering gear mounting.
  2. As an additional check, with the Key ON Engine OFF (KOEO) and the front wheels raised off the ground, grasp the wheel at the front and rear and watch for excessive play or binding in the joints while trying to steer the wheels.
  3. Install new components if necessary. Tighten any worn, damaged or loose components. Refer to the appropriate Steering System article for the procedure.

Power Steering System Flushing

ItemSpecification
MERCON® V Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-5-QM (or XT-5-QMC) (US); CXT-5-LM12 (Canada)MERCON® V

Material

Note. Do not mix oil types. Any mixture or any unapproved oil may lead to seal deterioration and leaks. A leak may ultimately cause loss of fluid, which may result in a loss of power steering assist.

  1. Remove the power steering fluid reservoir cap.
  2. Using a suitable suction device, remove the power steering fluid from the reservoir.
  3. Disconnect the return hose from the reservoir. Remove the clamp.
  4. Plug the power steering fluid reservoir inlet port.
  5. Attach an extension hose to the return hose.
  6. Place the open end of the extension hose into a suitable container.
  7. Fill the reservoir as needed with the specified fluid.
  8. Start the engine while simultaneously turning the steering wheel to lock and then immediately turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
  9. Fill the reservoir as needed.
  10. Repeat Steps 8 and 9, turning the steering wheel in the opposite direction each time, until the fluid exiting the power steering fluid return hose is clean and clear of foreign material.
  11. Remove the extension hose from the return hose.
  12. Remove the plug from the fluid reservoir inlet port.
  13. Install the power steering return hose to the reservoir. Install the clamp.
  14. Fill the power steering system. For additional information, refer to «Power Steering System Filling»(/ford/explorer-sport-trac/ii-2006-2010/remont/manual-power-steering/#steering-system-general-information__power-steering-system-filling) .

Power Steering System Purging

Special Tools Illustration Tool Name Tool Number Evacuation Cap, Power Steering 211-265 Vacuum Pump Kit 416-D002 (D95L-7559-A) or equivalent

ItemSpecification
MERCON® V Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-5-QM (or XT-5-QMC) (US); CXT-5-LM12 (Canada)MERCON® V

Material

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

  1. Remove the power steering pump reservoir cap. Check the fluid.
  2. Raise the front wheels off the floor. Refer to the appropriate Service Information article for the procedure.
  3. Tightly insert the Power Steering Evacuation Cap into the reservoir and connect the Vacuum Pump Kit.
  4. Start the engine.
  5. Using the Vacuum Pump Kit, apply vacuum and maintain the maximum vacuum of 68-85 kPa (20-25 in-Hg).
  6. If equipped with Hydro-Boost®, apply the brake pedal twice.
  7. Cycle the steering wheel fully from stop-to-stop 10 times.
  8. Stop the engine.
  9. Release the vacuum and remove the Vacuum Pump Kit and the Power Steering Evacuation Cap.
  10. Fill the reservoir. Use approved transmission fluid.
  11. Start the engine.
  12. Install the Power Steering Evacuation Cap and the Vacuum Pump Kit. Apply and maintain the maximum vacuum of 68-85 kPa (20-25 in-Hg).
  13. Cycle the steering wheel fully from stop-to-stop 10 times.
  14. Stop the engine, release the vacuum and remove the Vacuum Pump Kit and the Power Steering Evacuation Cap.
  15. Fill the reservoir as needed and install the reservoir cap.
  16. Visually inspect the power steering system for leaks.
  17. Fill the reservoir as needed and visually inspect the power steering system for leaks.
  18. Install the reservoir cap.

Power Steering System Filling

Special Tools Illustration Tool Name Tool Number Evacuation Cap, Power Steering 211-265 Fill Adapter Manifold, Power Steering 211-327 Vacuum Pump Kit 416-D002 (D95L-7559-A) or equivalent

ItemSpecification
MERCON® V Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-5-QM (or XT-5-QMC) (US); CXT-5-LM12 (Canada)MERCON® V

Material

Scheme 3

Scheme 3
Scheme 3
ItemDescription
1Power steering fluid reservoir
2Control valve (vacuum side)
3Control valve (fluid container side)
4Fluid container
  1. Remove the power steering fluid reservoir cap.
  2. Install the Power Steering Evacuation Cap, Power Steering Fill Adapter Manifold and Vacuum Pump Kit as shown in the illustration.
  3. Close the Power Steering Fill Adapter Manifold control valve (fluid side).
  4. Open the Power Steering Fill Adapter Manifold control valve (vacuum side).
  5. Using the Vacuum Pump Kit, apply 68-85 kPa (20-25 in-Hg) of vacuum to the power steering system.
  6. Observe the Vacuum Pump Kit gauge for 30 seconds.
  7. If the Vacuum Pump Kit vacuum gauge reading drops more than 3 kPa (0.88 in-Hg), correct any leaks in the power steering system or the Power Steering Evacuation Cap, Power Steering Fill Adapter Manifold and Vacuum Pump Kit before proceeding.
  8. Slowly open the Power Steering Fill Adapter Manifold control valve (fluid side) until power steering fluid completely fills the hose and then close the control valve.
  9. Using the Vacuum Pump Kit, apply 68-85 kPa (20-25 in-Hg) of vacuum to the power steering system.
  10. Close the Power Steering Fill Adapter Manifold control valve (vacuum side).
  11. Slowly open the Power Steering Fill Adapter Manifold control valve (fluid side).
  12. Once power steering fluid enters the fluid reservoir and reaches the minimum fluid level indicator line on the reservoir, close the Power Steering Fill Adapter Manifold control valve (fluid side).
  13. Remove the Power Steering Evacuation Cap, Power Steering Fill Adapter Manifold and Vacuum Pump Kit.
  14. Install the reservoir cap.
  15. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop.
  16. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
  17. Remove the reservoir cap and fill the reservoir with the specified fluid.
  18. Install the reservoir cap.

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