So my power steering pump is leaking... Tips on replacing it? Haven't even dove in enough to know where it is yet!

 

Just wondering how do you know it is the pump that is leaking if you dont know where it is? Not being smart a** just wondering.

 

I have to agree with Bobcat. You have to lift the hood before asking for advice.

 

FWIW, I've actually done quite a bit of work under the hood of this truck. Just never gone after this particular part yet. I had the truck at the mechanic this morning and they said it was leaking. I've been losing fluid over time, and its been whining bad too, so I knew it was going south... But they want nearly $500 to do the job, and for that money I may just do it myself...

 

Releasing the tension for the drive belt (look up "the trick" for that one), one 18mm pressure line fitting (an open end crow's foot and suitable extension) and three 10mm bolts later, and the pump is out. You will need a GOOD power steering pump pulley remover/installer tool to remove and transfer the pulley to the new pump (making sure it is completely FLUSH with the shaft after install), and install is just the reverse of removal. Have fun and good luck. The hardest part will be that pressure line fitting.

 

Thanks for the tips! About how long for an intermediate mechanic?

 

As mentioned above, the biggest headache will be the pressure line fitting at the pump. That said, as long as you make access to the underside of the vehicle relatively painless, as well as have the right tools handy, you should be good in a couple of hours.

 

I had to remove my lower radiator hose, and air cleaner ducting to get mine out. It would not go through the bottom. I was able to remove the pressure line after i got mine up to where i could work on it. Remember how the line is twisted when you take it off. Itll need to go back on the same way for when you put the pump back in. Good look, its no piece of cake.