97 Ford Taurus, power steering

1997 FORD TAURUS
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NETTER
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
160,000 plus miles
Trouble started with ps fluid leaking from clamps, replaced clamps and hose, then the hose kept blowing off and all the fluid would dump. With further investigation, I find the ps radiator was full of gunk, like steel shavings. Can I flush this out and put it back together? I also plan on replacing the pump as it lost fluid so many times it's squealing a bit.
Does anyone have any idea why this would have happened or if I need to do anything further?
Great car, strong engine.
Mar 2, 2006 at 3:44 AM
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PEPPERMRJ
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,158 POSTS
I would think it has died from old age. Have your steering rack checked.
Good luck and let us know. :)
Mar 3, 2006 at 11:49 AM
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Suggested Repair

Have the steering rack checked. The power steering failure is likely due to age and wear, given the metal debris and repeated hose blow-offs.

Conversation Summary

A 1997 Ford Taurus with over 160,000 miles had power steering fluid leaking at the clamps. After the clamps and hose were replaced, the hose kept blowing off and dumping fluid. The power steering cooler was full of gunk resembling steel shavings, and the pump squealed after repeated fluid loss. The owner asked whether the system could be flushed and reassembled and whether anything else was needed besides a planned pump replacement. The expert attributed the failure to age and recommended having the steering rack checked.

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