Parts Required:
* Power Steering Gearbox: This is the core component. You'll need one from a '96-'97 Ranger with power steering. The year is crucial for compatibility.
* Power Steering Pump: This pump will need to be matched to the gearbox and your engine's specifications. Again, a donor Ranger is the best source.
* Power Steering Lines (High and Low Pressure): These will need to be carefully routed and possibly custom-made or adapted from a donor vehicle. Leaks are a major concern.
* Power Steering Fluid Reservoir: A container to hold the power steering fluid.
* Mounting Brackets: You may need brackets to mount the pump and gearbox securely to the frame. Fabrication might be necessary here.
* Pulley for Power Steering Pump (if necessary): The pump pulley may need to be swapped onto your existing crankshaft pulley.
* Steering Column Shaft: Some Rangers have different steering shafts depending on power steering or manual, so you might need a swap. (Check the compatibility carefully.)
* Wiring harness (if necessary): May require additional wiring for the power steering pump.
* Power Steering Fluid: The correct type of fluid is essential.
Process:
1. Parts Acquisition: This is the most challenging step. Finding a suitable donor vehicle or sourcing all the necessary parts individually can be time-consuming and expensive. Junkyards are your best bet.
2. Removal of Manual Steering Components: Carefully remove the manual steering gear box, linkage, and related components.
3. Installation of Power Steering Components: Install the power steering gear box, pump, and reservoir in their correct locations. This will involve mounting brackets, securing lines, and potentially some fabrication.
4. Routing of Power Steering Lines: This is a critical step. Improper routing can lead to leaks and damage. Consider using a professional if you're uncomfortable with this task.
5. Connecting the Pump and Reservoir: Make sure the pump and reservoir are properly connected and filled with the correct fluid.
6. Bleeding the System: After installation, the power steering system needs to be bled to remove any air bubbles.
7. Testing: Carefully test the system. Check for leaks, ensure the steering operates smoothly, and verify proper fluid levels.
Challenges and Considerations:
* Finding Parts: This is the biggest hurdle. Parts from a donor vehicle are ideal but may be hard to come by.
* Fabrication: You might need welding or other fabrication skills to create or adapt mounting brackets.
* Plumbing: Routing the power steering lines correctly and securely is crucial. Leaks are a major concern.
* Bleeding the System: Air in the system can cause problems. Proper bleeding is essential.
* Complexity: This is a major mechanical project. It's not a job for beginners. If you lack mechanical experience, seek help from a qualified mechanic.
In short: While it's technically feasible, converting a 1996 Ford Ranger to power steering is a complex and labor-intensive project requiring mechanical skill, specialized tools, and access to the correct parts. Unless you have significant experience working on vehicles, it's strongly recommended to have this done by a professional mechanic. The cost of parts and labor could easily exceed the value of the truck if not done correctly.
