Power Steering Return Line.

firstwindstar02 · 10-02-2008, 08:08 AM

I have a pinch in my line and I'm being told that they don't make return lines for power steering unit that you can just bolt on and I have to 'fabricate' a piece from regular piping. Can anyone help me out with the details?

phantom_smack · 10-02-2008, 08:14 AM

Try antother vendor or the dealer I havent ever heard that except for older vehicles.

theoldwizard · 10-02-2008, 09:30 AM

It might help us if you told us what year and engine you have !

If it is a return line, it is low pressure and you can use fuel hose of the appropriate ID. You may have to strap it down so that it does not rub on various rotating things.

mark v · 10-02-2008, 09:57 AM

I have used bulk Power steering hose to fabricate new lines before.

newbie321 · 10-06-2008, 10:43 AM

I got the return line cooler line from CarQuest for $17.02. I posted some pics here. Power Steering problem on a Ford Windstar « Diyrepair’s Blog. hope that this helps.

midnitez · 10-17-2008, 03:49 AM

I had to replace the hard return line on my '98, 3.0 Windstar about a year ago due to corrosion. I had to get the line from the dealer. They had a heck of a time getting the right part because their diagrams aren't real specific on that part. It took a few tries but they did get it. I think it was about $60.
It was also a PITA to install because of the way it was routed. Had to remove or loosen just about everything on the pass. side of the vehicle. Got it done though. Figure I saved a ton of money too.

theoldwizard · 10-17-2008, 06:22 AM

Newbie, glad to see you got your problem fixed ! Thanks for the picture. I guess I would call that part a power steering cooler not just a return line.

firstwindstar02 · 11-10-2008, 12:50 PM

isn't this a high pressure line?

firstwindstar02 · 11-12-2008, 08:20 AM

How do I repair that hard plastic part of the power steering line? Its pinched badly and it's causing the power steering to make loud whining sounds. Is there any way I can just cut the pinch out and fab some tubing to connect it back? MarkV let me know how you would do it? I know you said you've fabbed up tubing before.

mark v · 11-12-2008, 08:26 AM

I have cut metal line and replaced it with rubber high pressure hose with clamps. I would use Fuel Injection clamps.

I dont know how this will work on a plastic line.

If you can buy metal line with fittings on it and thread it into the PS pump and Rack you should be able to route a rubber hose, personally if you go that far I would just buy a new factory hose.