Power steering in your Cutlass makes it easier to turn the vehicle. Power steering fluid, under pressure, assists the driver and gives him more power when the steering wheel is turned. A power steering pump in the engine compartment, powered by a belt from the engine, keeps the fluid under pressure. Power steering hoses convey the fluid throughout the power steering system. These hoses can sometimes crack or wear out. Replacing them is a task the DIY mechanic can handle over the course of an afternoon.
Park the Cutlass on a flat and level spot that will give you room to work around the engine compartment. Shift the car into park and turn off the ignition. Pop the hood. Allow the engine to cool for 45 minutes before trying to service the hose.
Locate the power steering pump. The exact location will depend on your Cutlass model. For example, in the 1997-2000 Cutlass models, the power steering pump is mounted at the rear of the engine compartment. You can identify the power steering pump because there will be a pulley running around the pump and two hoses leading out of the body.
Place a drain pan underneath the power steering pump.
Loosen the hose clamps on the Cutlass power steering hose you want to replace. These may be clamps held in place with screws or pinch clamps that need to be squeezed with a pair of pliers to remove.
Run the utility knife along the hose horizontally to cut it off the power steering and engine nipples.
Hold the old hose next to the new hose and cut the new hose to length using the shears. Apply a light coat of power steering fluid to the inside ends of the hose. Slip the hose back into place over the power steering pump and engine nipples. Secure it with the clamps.
Refill the power steering reservoir to the proper level. Start the car and check the steering. Tighten any clamps, if needed.
