HELPPPPPPP!!!

I have completely rebuilt the front end of my 04 2wd XLT. New EVERYTHING, you name it, its DONE. Everything with rubber on the front end is brand new Moog.
Here is my new issue. Please help. I had a new Cardone Steering Gear box and OEM Power Steering Pump installed just yesterday. I immediately noticed that my brakes felt spongy and the steering feels like it is going away when I steer to the left. Even on the fwy in slight left-hand curves it feels really really loose like it wants to takeoff left on me. I had the mechanic do the procedure to bleed the steering box by turning the wheel lleft and right stop to stop like a hundred times. Also had him bleed the brake lines at the wheels. Can someone please explain to my why the brakes were affected? AND HOW DO I FIX THIS PROBLEM? I KNOW ITS A HYDRO BOOTS SYSTEM BUT, I AM AT A TOTAL LOST AS TO WHAT TO DO..

Thanks in advance....

 

With the hydroboost option, the power steering fluid flows from the pump to the hydroboost, to the steering gear, to the cooler, and then back to the reservoir, waiting to go to the pump again.

Without the brakes applied, fluid flows through the hydroboost valve as though there was nothing there. When you apply the hydroboost, a valve partially blocks the flow so the fluid is pressurized behind it, and a small percentage of the fluid is directed to assist in pressurizing the master cylinder. The remaining amount of fluid bypasses the hydroboost and continues to the steering gear.

In a straight position, the fluid just flows through the steering gearbox. When the steering wheel is turned, like the hydroboost, a valve partially blocks the flow so behind the valve the fluid is pressurized and assists in turning the steering in that direction. The percentage of fluid not blocked continues to the cooler. When you turn the steering all the way left or right, the internal valve completely blocks fluid flow, and then the pressure relief valve in the power steering pump opens and you hear the buzzing sound.

You replaced the pump and the steering box. Since you only have a turning issue with left turns, that would indicate a steering box issue. If it was me, I'd warranty that first.

Soft brakes should not be an issue with the master cylinder or brake hydraulics if you did not replace anything of the brake system. And if not, you have to go back to the steering system. Brake softness is not usually an issue with the hyroboost lacking, it would be hard to push.

However, is there are particles in the power steering hydraulics from a failed pump or steering box, all bets are off. If a pump, steering box, or hydroboost fails, the entire system should be flushed, including the reservoir before replacement parts are installed, otherwise, the components can be contaminated. Ford has in its service procedures that when you have a system failure, a filter should be installed in the return line from the cooler temporarily to catch materials. That however, is woefully inadequate as it catching after going through all the components.

If by softness you mean long travel, you could be back to the pump or clogging in the hydroboost valving.

 

Its going to be a steering gear issue. Welcome to Cardone quality! You would have been far ahead to get your stock box rebuilt by Red Head or Blue Top.

 

Yep the Cardone component is the likely the problem. They have a lot of quality issues. The more complex a part the higher the probability of issues.

 

Thank You All. Looking like i'm going to be doing a Do-Over! I removed the steering stabilizer for now and the steering is better. But not enough for my liking. The brake pedal has subsided and feels normal again.

My mechanic says Redhead has been having issues with their gears as of late. Any word on that? Should I just get the factory box?

 

I have about 1600 miles on my Blue Top and it’s been great. No issues getting the core refund back and the owner answers his phone.

 

Take the blue pill .....

 

Another vote for the Blue Top. Put one on last year and it's been great so far. Great company to work with.

 

Thx,

I opted going back OEM, the old one lasted 16yrs, plus 2 yr Warrentee parts n labor!!! That BS Cardin mudt go tho....Stay safe all...

🤷🏾‍♂️😁

Thx Again