Before You Begin:
* Consult a Repair Manual: A Haynes or Chilton manual specific to your vehicle's year and model is essential. It will provide detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and specific steps.
* Gather Supplies: You'll need new hoses (get the correct ones!), new hose clamps (often worm-drive clamps are best), jack stands, jack, wrench set (metric), socket set (metric), pliers, rags, power steering fluid (the correct type for your car), a drain pan, gloves, safety glasses, and potentially a power steering fluid flush kit.
* Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves. Power steering fluid is corrosive. Work in a well-ventilated area. Make sure the car is securely supported on jack stands. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
Steps (General):
1. Identify the Leaky Hose: Pinpoint the exact hose that needs replacing. Pressure testing may be needed to confirm.
2. Prepare the Vehicle: Raise the vehicle securely using a jack and jack stands. Consult your repair manual for safe jacking points.
3. Drain Power Steering Fluid: Locate the power steering fluid reservoir. Carefully drain the fluid into a drain pan. You may need to remove a drain plug or use a pump to get most of the fluid out.
4. Disconnect the Hose:
* Pressure Relief: Some systems may have a pressure relief valve. Consult your repair manual to locate and use it before disconnecting any hoses. This prevents fluid from spraying out unexpectedly.
* Clamp Removal: Loosen the hose clamps securing the hose to the fittings using the correct pliers or wrench.
* Hose Removal: Carefully disconnect the hose from the fittings. Be prepared for some fluid leakage. Use rags to absorb any spills.
5. Install the New Hose:
* Fittings: Ensure the new hose fits correctly onto the fittings. It should be a snug fit.
* Clamp Installation: Secure the hose with new hose clamps. Tighten them securely, but don't overtighten. Consult your repair manual for proper torque specifications if provided.
6. Reconnect and Refill:
* Reconnect Hoses: Double-check all connections before lowering the vehicle.
* Refill Reservoir: Add the correct type of power steering fluid to the reservoir. Consult your owner's manual or repair manual. Typically, you'll fill it to the "full" line.
7. Bleed the System (If Necessary): Some systems require bleeding after a hose replacement. Your repair manual will explain how to do this; it usually involves turning the steering wheel lock-to-lock several times while the engine is running.
8. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
9. Check for Leaks: Start the engine and check for any leaks around the new hose connections. Run the engine for a few minutes, turning the steering wheel lock-to-lock several times. Check the fluid level in the reservoir.
10. Top Off Fluid: Add more power steering fluid if needed.
Important Considerations:
* Fluid Type: Use the correct type and amount of power steering fluid specified for your 1993 Cadillac Deville. Using the wrong fluid can damage the power steering system.
* Torque Specifications: Always tighten bolts and clamps to the manufacturer's recommended torque specifications. Over-tightening can damage components.
* Professional Help: If you're uncomfortable performing this repair yourself, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improper repair can lead to more serious damage.
This is a general overview. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1993 Cadillac Deville before attempting this repair. The steps and specific locations of components may vary slightly. Incorrect procedures can lead to injury or further damage to your vehicle.
