melted power steering return hose

2005 DODGE CARAVAN
160,000 MILES
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CARTER96
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The power steering return was touching the engine and a hole melted in the side. I cant seem to get the right hose from the auto parts stores around me, they keep ordering them for me and when I get there it is the pressure line. My question is can I just use 3/8 id hose or does it need to have the reducer in it that the old one had. The old one had a metal clamp on the hose with what looks like a reducer in the middle.
May 10, 2013 at 4:57 PM
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MHPAUTOS
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Take the old hose off and give it to a hydraulic hose manufacturer, they will either repair or make a new pone to suite.
May 10, 2013 at 5:13 PM
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CARTER96
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Thought about that but there isn't one close to me that is open on the weekend. I have 3/8 id hose that is suitable but worried that the pump requires the reducer to work properly. Just really need to know if it will work like that or if it would end up destroying the pump.
May 10, 2013 at 5:17 PM
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MHPAUTOS
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 31,937 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
If it is the low pressure line, patch it up, split a larger length of heater hose, and clamp in place with hose clamps, the reducer will have to be in the system if that is what it is, but for a short term mend to get you going patch or replace with standard hose will do, but get the correct hose ASAP.
May 11, 2013 at 2:59 PM
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