Hi,

I have a 98 F-150 4.2L with 250,000kms.

When the truck is at idle the power steering does not work. If I hit the gas and rev it up a little the power steering starts to work. Fluid level is fine.

Is it time for a new pump?

How hard is it to change? Can it be done in an evening?

Any special tools required?

I need to get this fixed as my girlfriend drives it and she does not have enough muscle to manouver it in parking lots.

I called my local parts depot and the pump is about $160 CAD after the core change.

Thanks in advance.

 

It does sound like you'll need to replace the pump.
It's not a big job but you will need a P/S pulley puller and installer tool. Dont try to use any other puller or you'll break parts.
Hopefully your parts store has pullers and installers that you can rent.

 

Thanks.

What type of fluid is required? and how much?

 

just a question but did you check the belt? It does sound like you need to change the pump but check the belt.

Lance

 

I checked the serpentine belt and it looks fine. I also check the fluid level and it's fine. With the amount of miles on the truck I'm not surprised it's time for a new power steering pump.

Is there any special way to bleed the new pump?

 

All I have ever done, (when I replace the lines), was to have the cap off, then have someone else slowly turn the wheel back and forth starting in small movements first then increasing the movement as the air is worked out, until you are getting no more bubbles and the fill level is good.

 

also along with the advice of billybob69, jack up the front wheels this releives the pressure or weight of the vehicle and does not strain the the new pump so much.

Lance

 

I knew I forgot something! Thanks Lance!