Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Description & Operation
Power steering gear unit combines gear and valve housing into a one-piece aluminum die casting. Quick-connect fittings are used for pressure and return lines. Fittings are designed to swivel and should not be overtightened.
A hydraulic-mechanical unit with an integral piston and rack provides power-assisted steering control. Internal valving directs pump flow and controls pressure. Unit contains a rotary fluid control valve and a boost cylinder integrated with gear rack.
Three types of power steering pumps are used. See POWER STEERING PUMP APPLICATIONS . Atsugi and Ford C-III pumps are vane type pumps. Manufacturers do not recommend service of these pumps. If service is required, replace pump as an assembly. The Ford C-II pump is a 10-slipper type with spring loaded slippers within cam and rotor creating pumping action. A flow control relief valve maintains pump volume and pressure. Ford C-II power steering pump may be overhauled or replaced as an assembly. See POWER STEERING PUMP OVERHAUL .
Dipstick is located at pump reservoir. Other applications incorporate secondary reservoir on fender apron connected to pump by a hose. Fluid level measurements are marked on body of secondary reservoir. All pump types incorporate swivel pressure fittings. An identification tag attached to reservoir body indicates pump model. Use model code when ordering service parts. Some differences in internal components exist.
| Applications | Model | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Escort & Tracer | ||||
| 1.8L | (1) | |||
| 1.9L | Ford C-II | |||
| Probe | (1) | |||
| Mustang | Ford C-II | |||
| Tempo & Topaz | ||||
| 2.3L | C-III | |||
| 3.0L | Atsugi | |||
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NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.