Safety First:
* Disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any work.
* Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from splashing fluids.
* Use jack stands to safely support the vehicle. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Dispose of fluids properly. Power steering fluid is harmful to the environment.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Socket wrench set (metric)
* Wrenches (metric)
* Power steering fluid (correct type for your Mark VIII)
* Drain pan
* Rags or shop towels
* Torque wrench
* New power steering pump
* Possibly a pulley puller (depending on the pump design)
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for precise details):
1. Prepare the Vehicle: Raise the front of the vehicle and securely support it with jack stands.
2. Drain Power Steering Fluid: Locate the power steering fluid reservoir and carefully drain the fluid into a drain pan.
3. Access the Power Steering Pump: This usually involves removing the serpentine belt. The specific procedure for belt removal varies depending on the year of your Mark VIII. Consult your repair manual for the correct routing and tensioner release procedure. You might need to remove other components to gain sufficient access to the pump.
4. Disconnect Components: Disconnect the power steering pressure hose and return hose from the pump. Be prepared for some fluid leakage. Have rags ready to absorb any spilled fluid. You may need to use line wrenches to avoid damaging the fittings.
5. Remove the Pump: Depending on the year and configuration, the pump may be bolted directly to the engine block or have a mounting bracket. Remove the bolts securing the pump. You may need a pulley puller to remove the pulley from the pump shaft.
6. Install the New Pump: Install the new power steering pump, ensuring the pulley is correctly aligned. Tighten the mounting bolts to the specified torque.
7. Reconnect Components: Reconnect the power steering hoses.
8. Reinstall the Serpentine Belt: Reinstall the serpentine belt according to the routing diagram in your repair manual.
9. Fill the Reservoir: Add the correct type and amount of power steering fluid to the reservoir.
10. Bleed the System: Start the engine and turn the steering wheel fully left and right several times to bleed any air from the system. Check the fluid level and add more as needed.
11. Check for Leaks: Inspect all connections for leaks.
12. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
Important Considerations:
* Power Steering Fluid Type: Use the correct type of power steering fluid specified in your owner's manual. Using the wrong fluid can damage the pump and other components.
* Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specifications. Over-tightening can strip threads or damage components.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, it's best to take your Mark VIII to a qualified mechanic.
This is a simplified overview. Again, refer to a repair manual specific to your vehicle's year and model for complete and accurate instructions. Failure to follow proper procedures can result in damage to your vehicle or personal injury.
