SYS.OK|MANUAL.DB● LIVE
HOMESERVICE MANUALSMERCURY1999TRACER LS, 4D SEDAN, STANDARDREPAIR AND DIAGNOSIS (SINGLE PAGE)EXTERNAL PAGESDIFFERENT CARSECTION 914 (STEERING SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION - F250-F550)DIAGNOSTIC TESTSSTEERING SYSTEMINSPECTION AND VERIFICATIONNOTES
1999 Mercury Tracer LS, 4D Sedan, Standard

Inspection and Verification: Notes

1999 Mercury Tracer LS, 4D Sedan, StandardSECTION Notes
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Ford Pickup, 2007 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2007 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2007 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Verify the customer concern.
  2. Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical damage.
    VISUAL INSPECTION CHART

    Mechanical
    • Fluid level
    • Tire pressure
    • Tires
    • Drive belt
    • Drive belt tensioner
    • Steering column alignment
    • Tie-rod ends
    • Suspension components
    • Steering column shaft U-joints
    • Steering column shaft bolts
    • Power steering reservoir baffle
    • Power steering reservoir screen
    • Power steering pressure lines, fittings or O-rings
    • Power steering return hoses and clamps
    • Steering gear
    • Power steering pump
    • Power steering pressure switch
  3. Inspect the power steering fluid for the following conditions:
    4. NOTE: It may be necessary to add power steering fluid to achieve the correct level.
  4. Check the fluid level and clean the power steering components.

    With the ignition OFF:

    • Check the power steering fluid level and add fluid as necessary.
    • Wipe off any visible signs of fluid or residue build up.
      CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel at the stops for an extended amount of time. Damage to the power steering pump may occur.
    • Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop several times.
  5. Visually inspect the power steering hydraulic line/hose connections for leaks.
    • If a leak is detected at a threaded fitting, tighten to specification. If the leak is still evident, visually inspect the O-rings or Teflon® seals. Install new O-rings or Teflon® seals as necessary. Refer to POWER STEERING article.
    • If a leak is detected at a constant tension spring clamp, verify that the hose is not damaged and fully installed on the hose fitting. Make sure that the constant tension spring clamp is correctly positioned. If the leak remains, install a new constant tension spring clamp.
    • If a leak is detected at a screw clamp joint, verify that the hose is fully installed on the hose fitting before tightening the screw clamp. If the leak remains, install a new screw clamp. Refer to POWER STEERING article.
    • If a leak is detected at the power steering pressure switch, install a new switch. Refer to the appropriate Engine article for the procedure.
  6. Visually inspect the power steering components for leaks.
    • If a leak is detected in the power steering pressure line or return hose, install a new hose. Refer to POWER STEERING article.
    • If a leak is detected in the power steering pump, install a new power steering pump. Refer to POWER STEERING article.
    • If a leak is detected in the steering gear, inspect the steering gear and determine the source of the leak. If the leak is related to seals, O-rings and/or the sector shaft cover, reseal the steering gear. Refer to Disassembly and Assembly in POWER STEERING article. If there is damage to the steering gear housing or mating components, a new steering gear must be installed, Refer to POWER STEERING article.
    • If a leak is detected in the power steering reservoir, install a new reservoir. Refer to POWER STEERING article.
  7. For information on power steering leak detection, refer to Component Tests in this article.
  8. If an obvious cause for an observed or reported concern is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding.
  9. If the cause is not visually evident, verify the symptom and Go to Symptom Chart .
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Shop Manual-Ready ToolsFree Quote CheckQuote Shield Pro

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.