Before You Begin:
* Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any work.
* Gather Tools: You'll need a variety of tools, including wrenches (metric), sockets, a power steering pump pulley puller, a torque wrench, jack stands, ramps or a lift, fluid catch pan, new power steering fluid, and possibly a pressure bleeder. A repair manual will list the specific tools and their sizes.
* Protect Yourself: Wear safety glasses and gloves.
* Dispose of Fluids Properly: Used power steering fluid is hazardous waste. Dispose of it properly according to local regulations.
General Steps (May vary by year):
1. Raise and Secure the Vehicle: Safely raise the front of your Ford Escape using jack stands or ramps. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. Locate the Power Steering Pump: It's typically located at the front of the engine, near the crankshaft pulley.
3. Drain Power Steering Fluid: Locate the power steering fluid reservoir and carefully drain the fluid into a catch pan.
4. Disconnect Components:
* Pressure Hose: This is usually the hose connected to the pump's outlet. Loosen the clamp and disconnect the hose, being prepared for some fluid spillage. Have a rag ready to absorb the fluid.
* Return Hose: Disconnect this hose from the pump's inlet.
* Electrical Connector(s): Disconnect any electrical connectors attached to the pump.
* Belt: Remove the serpentine belt (or the power steering pump belt if it's a separate belt). You'll likely need a belt tensioner tool.
* Pulley: Use a pulley puller to remove the pulley from the power steering pump. This step often requires significant force and the proper tool.
5. Remove the Pump Mounting Bolts: Carefully remove the bolts securing the power steering pump to the engine block. Note the location and orientation of the pump and any shims or spacers before removing it.
6. Install the New Pump: Carefully install the new power steering pump, ensuring it's properly seated. Tighten the mounting bolts to the specifications listed in your repair manual. Use a torque wrench to avoid over-tightening.
7. Reinstall Components: Reinstall the pulley, belt, and all hoses in the reverse order of removal. Double-check all connections and clamps.
8. Fill with Power Steering Fluid: Fill the power steering fluid reservoir with the correct type and amount of fluid. Refer to your owner's manual for the correct fluid type.
9. Bleed the System: This is crucial to remove air from the system. Some methods involve turning the steering wheel lock-to-lock while the engine is running (with the reservoir filled). Others involve using a power steering pressure bleeder. Consult your repair manual for the proper bleeding procedure.
10. Check for Leaks: After the system is bled, inspect for any leaks around the pump and hoses.
11. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle.
Important Considerations:
* Year-Specific Differences: The exact procedure may vary depending on the year and engine of your Ford Escape.
* Repair Manual: Using a repair manual specific to your vehicle is absolutely essential for success. It will provide detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and crucial steps that are impossible to cover in a general overview.
* Professional Help: If you are not comfortable with automotive repair, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. This is not a beginner's job.
This information is for guidance only and does not constitute professional automotive advice. Always consult a qualified mechanic or your vehicle's repair manual before attempting any repair. Incorrectly completing this task can lead to serious damage and injury.
