Can anybody tell me if there is a how-to for changing the power steering fluid for a 98 Ranger 3.0? My Haynes manual doesn't even mention it.

 

I just read about it, I did a search on here in the Mazda/Ranger forum. I searched using "power steering leaks". I would post the link but I don't know how...

 

Power Steering - System Flushing (copied from the 98 Ford Ranger Service CD)

(I just did this on my 98 Mazda B2500 100kmi and it needed flushing.)

WARNING:
Do not mix oil types. Any mixture or any unapproved oil can lead to seal deterioration and leaks. A leak can ultimately cause loss of fluid, which can result in a loss of power steering assist.

1. Remove the ignition coil fuse to disable the vehicle. (Fuse #19 in the panel just left of steering wheel)

2. Disconnect the power steering return hose. Plug the reservoir.

3. Attach an extension hose between the power steering return hose and an empty container. (I disconnected on of the cooling hoses as it returns to the pump)

4. Raise the front wheels off the floor.

5. Fill the reservoir.

Use Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or MERCON® equivalent.

6. CAUTION:
Do not crank the engine for more than 15 seconds at a time. Allow the starter to cool for 1 minute before cranking again. Premature starter failure can occur.

CAUTION:
Do not hold the steering wheel against the stops for more than three to five seconds at a time. Damage to the power steering pump could occur.

Turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop while cranking the engine until the fluid exiting the power steering return hose is clear of all contamination and debris.

Add Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or MERCON® equivalent as needed.

7. Lower the vehicle.

8. Disconnect the extension hose from the power steering return hose. Remove the plug. Attach the power steering return hose to the reservoir.

9. Fill the reservoir.

Use Motorcraft MERCON® Multi-Purpose ATF XT-2-QDX or MERCON® equivalent.

10. Install the ignition coil fuse.

11. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from stop-to-stop. (I went to a parking lot and did some full range turns).

12. Note: If the power steering system is noisy and is accompanied by evidence of aerated fluid it will be necessary to purge the power steering system.

Check the power steering fluid level.

 

Can anyone tell me how to get the power steering pump & mounting bracket off a 98 ranger? I've removed all the bolts I can find, including the AC compressor ones, and It still wont budge!
Help?

 

Ford Manual says you have to remove the PS pump pulley first.

And I know it might sound dumb, but don't forget to disconnect the pressure line (upper, has the fitting) and also the return line hose (lower) from the pump.

 

Thanks for the reply.....but I'm actually trying to get the mounting bracket off as well (with the pump attached). I originally thought it would be easier to take the pulley off, then take the pump off (leaving the bracket in place), but the guys at AutoZone said that taking the pully off while it's on the vehicle is very hard, and that putting the pulley back on is even harder. They have a power stand and tools to remove and reinstall the pulley that customers can use at the store for free.......but so far, I cant get the bracket off. I may ahve to go back to the start, and take your advise on removing the pulley.

Thanks again!

 

I went back to autozone & rented one of their pulley pullers (say that ten times), and got the pulley off with a little elbow grease & a bit more patience. Got the pump off easily then & repalced with new pump. Waiting on new hoses to arrive before going further & getting into the dreaded flush & air purge action.
Thanks for your input!

 

I aslo did pump replacement using the pulley removal and install kit from autozone and it was a snap be sure to check serp belt at same time.