1995 Windstar power steering hose/line

[Greg W]

Has anybody had any experience with replacing the high pressure line/hose for the power steering on 1995 Ford Windstar 3.8L. It looks like it is somewhat obstructed in many places. What is the best way to replace this hose.

Thanks
Greg

[wiswind]

I have not replaced this line, but I do know that it is available.
Use great care in getting the connector to the pump lined up, so that you don't end up cross threading the nut.
The connection may be the same on the steering rack.....I have not looked at it.

Also, using my '96 as a point of reference, there should be some insulation areas on the power steering high pressure line, make sure that they are in place.

Once you replace it, I would do a fluid exchange to get all fresh fluid in there.
The 1995 will call for a Type "F" Automatic Transmission Fluid.
You can get this at most any auto part stores.
DON'T use Power Steering Fluid.
If you do a search on 'change power steering fluid', you should find some posts on how to do it.
Newer windstars call for Mercon ATF....I do not know if that can be used in our older units or not....I suspect it can....but I am no authority on the subject.

Before starting the job, I would remove the Serpentine belt (check on the underside of the hood for a diagram that shows the routing for you to use for re-installation).
When I replaced my power steering pump, I thought that I could cover the belt to keep the fluid(s) off of it.......I was wrong.
The belt does not take well to having the fluid get onto it.
Wipe the pulleys to remove any fluid(s) and reinstall the belt before running the engine.

[Greg W]

What I was worried about was if things like the alternator, pump and brackets and whatever else all have to be removed to gain access to where the line runs and is anchored to various things.