So after having a couple of OEM steering boxes break, I finally converted to the CPP power steering kit. Seems to be working OK, but I have noticed that the fluid seems to get hotter that I would have expected, even just idling for a short time in my driveway. I have not tried a long drive yet as I am working out a few other bugs.

The question is for those that have installed power steering, did you add a cooler to your system?

 

Well, Ford thought it was necessary, I'm sure they didn't add one just to spend money. It's not hard to add one in the return line. The oil cooler from a 90s F series makes a nice one.

 

That was my thought as well, but CPP did not recommend one, so I wanted to ask someone that has done it..

I do have the OEM one from the Thunderbird that bolts on the top of the A/C compressor, maybe I will look into making that work.

 

There are a few reasons for excessive heat in the power steering fluid. One thing to consider is the ratio between the crank pulley and the pump pulley. Different pumps perform best at different RPM's depending on the application. If you have a setup that is spinning the pump faster than it needs to be, this can cause the pump to heat up the fluid. In essence, the pump is forcing more fluid through the system than the system (steering box) needs or can handle. Typically, either the crank pulley is too big or the pump pulley is too small.

You might consider measuring the diameter of your crank pulley and the pump pulley. You could then call the tech guys at CPP. Maybe they can provide some information on how your specific pump is matching up with your particular power steering box. They may also be able to give you information on the best crank to pump pulley ratio for your system.

You can also measure the temperature of your fluid when you think it is running hot and see if it is within the range specified by the manufacturer of your steering components. While you are at it, make sure the fluid you are using is of the type specified by the pump manufacturer. Some pumps are picky when it comes to fluid. Synthetic stuff may not always be the best option.

I know you have checked for obstructions in both the high pressure and return lines so I would guess that potential problem has been ruled out.

I guess if all else fails, then you might have to consider the cooler option.

 

So CCP said not to use one, or just didn't say? If they said not to, I would be curious why.

 

The pump & pulley setup is factory Ford from the 71 Thunderbird I pulled the motor from, so I'm sure its right for the pump. CPP did confirm that the pump should work with their steering box.

I have not contacted CPP about the cooler, but it is not in their instructions to add one. I was just curious to see if anyone else added one.

I have a laser thermometer that I can use to check, but as I said, I have a few other bugs to work out before I go for a longer drive.

 

There is certainly no harm in adding one. It can only help.

 

So I finally got it out & took it for a short drive... about 5 miles. Checked the power steering pump case with a laser thermometer... 205deg! WOW!

Added the OEM cooler from the Thunderbird that was mounted on top of the AC compressor & put it upside-down on the pump. Took the same drive, & the temp was only 152. Much better!

 

Well done!

I could see doing something like this on my truck.