QuestionQUESTION: Hi James, My mom has a 1999 Ford Taurus. The power steering went so we replaced the power steering pump. While we were checking the new pump to make sure it was working, the power steering fluid shot straight up (engine had just been turned off). It seems like there is air or something in it now, it does not drive well at all. The power steering seems almost non-existent still. Any ideas for us? Thank you! Natalie
ANSWER: Sorry for your wait Natalie; I just came off vacation and got the dates mixed up. The power steering system has to be purged. This can be done by turning the wheel completely to the left and right. I know that it is harder than it sounds, but it has to be done. The harder the better.
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QUESTION: Hi James, we did find a leak where the boot is on the passenger side of the rack. We fixed that and purged the system by turning the steering wheel left to right (we've done that many, many times now, how many times until it works?). It seems better but the power steering still only works at about 75-80%. Is there something else we should be doing? Thank you!
AnswerYes, there is one other thing. As you near the end of the turn, Push the wheel violently to the left, or right as applicable. Almost as if you feel like it is not natural. Don't worry, you are not going to break it. I sometimes get to the end of a revolution, back off a quarter turn, then I jar it really hard.That jars loose those stubborn air pockets giving you trouble.
