Here's a general outline of the process. This is not a complete, step-by-step guide and should not be used as a sole source of information. You'll need a detailed repair manual specific to your 1999 Mercury Mountaineer (a Haynes or Chilton manual is a good investment).
Before You Begin:
* Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery cable. Power steering fluid is under pressure and can cause injury. Wear safety glasses and gloves.
* Gather Tools and Supplies: You'll need a variety of tools including sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers, a power steering fluid pump, a drain pan, rags, new seal(s) (ensure you get the correct part number for your specific vehicle), possibly a seal installer tool, and fresh power steering fluid.
* Consult a Repair Manual: A repair manual will provide specific torque specifications, diagrams, and step-by-step instructions tailored to your vehicle's make and model.
General Steps (This is highly simplified and may vary depending on the specific seal):
1. Drain Power Steering Fluid: Locate the power steering fluid reservoir and carefully drain the fluid into a suitable container.
2. Access the Seal: This is the most labor-intensive part. It will likely involve removing components like the power steering pump pulley, serpentine belt, and potentially even the power steering pump itself, depending on the location of the leaking seal. Your repair manual will detail the specific steps. Take photos as you disassemble to help with reassembly.
3. Remove the Old Seal: Carefully remove the old seal. You may need special tools to remove it without damaging the surrounding components.
4. Clean the Area: Thoroughly clean the area where the old seal was located, removing any debris or old seal material.
5. Install the New Seal: Carefully install the new seal, making sure it's seated correctly. A seal installer tool can help prevent damage.
6. Reassemble: Carefully reassemble all the components you removed, following the steps in reverse order. Refer to your repair manual for torque specifications.
7. Refill with Power Steering Fluid: Refill the power steering fluid reservoir with the correct type and amount of fluid.
8. Bleed the System: Bleed the power steering system to remove any air bubbles. This usually involves turning the steering wheel from lock to lock while the engine is running. Consult your repair manual for the correct bleeding procedure.
9. Check for Leaks: Check for any leaks after refilling and bleeding the system.
Important Considerations:
* Identifying the Leaking Seal: Pinpointing the exact location of the leak is crucial. Is it the pump seal, a hose seal, or a rack and pinion seal? This will dictate the specific repair procedure.
* Power Steering Pump Removal: Removing the power steering pump is often necessary to access certain seals, adding complexity to the job.
* Fluid Type: Use the correct type of power steering fluid specified for your vehicle.
* Torque Specifications: Following the correct torque specifications is essential to prevent damage.
This is a simplified overview. Always consult a detailed repair manual for your specific 1999 Mercury Mountaineer before attempting this repair. If you lack the experience or tools, seeking professional help is strongly recommended. Improperly replacing a power steering seal can lead to serious steering problems and potentially dangerous driving conditions.
