Replacing '00 Windstar PS Pump - difficult?

2000 Windstar 3.8L -- Power Steering (PS) pump has a significant leak...loses fluid and steering makes alot of noise after a 20-30 mile drive. There is no leakage when car is parked in driveway -- only noticeable after/during driving. I've tried Valvoline Leak Stop and Lucas Leak Stop (12 oz) with no results.

So, I think I need to replace the PS Pump. Question is, should I do this myself or am I getting in over my head? I work on my own cars alot, but have never done any PS work or in fact, haven't done much on a minivan, as this car is new to our family (1st van).

Also, is it possible that it's not the PS Pump? The cost of a new pump at Autozone for the 3.8L engine is $150+, so I'd hate to spend $ without fixing the problem. FYI...the PS works great when the fluid level is full.

Thanks for any and all advice...LJ

You need to trace the source of the leak first. It could be from the rack & pinion assembly (blown cylinder seal). If this is the case, you'll see leakage around the steering arm boots. You could also have a leaking hose/line/fitting near the pump, cooler or rack. The power steering systems on these vans are way over stressed . The power steering fluid (ATF) on my 2001 was burnt, black and nasty @ 32000mi. I thought the pump was shot due to the noise (whine) from it. A simple fluid swap fixed it. Be sure to only use mercon ATF for the power steering units on these vans.
G/luck
Joel

Definitely take another look for the leak, there is a TSB out on your Windstar for steering rack fluid leaks at the end seals so that is common. I would look there first before touching the PS pump.

Question?

Is a TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) just a heads-up that a significant amount of vehicles are experiencing similiar problems and a "how-to" fix it type of notice?

Or is it a "recall-type" announcement where I can take my car to the dealer and get them to address and fix the problem free of charge?

Also, how can I get a copy of a specific TSB on the internet?

I think both of your examples can be accurate, some TSBs can turn into recalls or warranty extensions. You can get a list of TSBs for free at www.alldata.com, for the full text version you can get a membership with them for $24.95. Or some have been able to take the TSB title to the dealership and gotten the details, depends on the dealer.

Update -- I found the source of the leak. You were right, it wasn't the PS pump. The metal return line (the one close to the right front tire) had somehow gotten out of it's bracket and was rubbing against the metal frame of the car. Over time, the friction and vibration created a slice and eventually a pinhole in that metal line.

To fix it, I used JB Weld and some rubber heater hose. So far, it's holding up just fine after 2 days of driving. There's not much pressure on that line, so hopefully it will last. Thanks again.