Chrysler Town & Country Steering Pump Replacement Instructions
by Chris MooreIf the power steering pump is damaged and leaking fluid in your Chrysler van, it needs replacing. Depending on the year or engine type (four-cylinder or V6), the replacement procedure can vary in both its steps and difficulty because of the parts you'll need to remove to get to the pump. It may be easier to change the pump in a Town & Country van with a V6 engine.
Removal
Step 1
Disconnect the van battery's negative cable.
Step 2
Siphon out the power steering fluid with a vacuum pump or similar siphon tool. Make sure you know how to dispose of it as per your local laws.
Step 3
Raise the van and support it on jack stands.
Step 4
Remove all components blocking access to the pump. Depending on the van's year and engine type, this can include the accessory drive belt, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold and/or windshield wiper motor.
Step 5
Disconnect all the lines from the power steering pump, including the fluid supply hose, pressure line and return hose; the hoses will need pliers on the clamps and a flare-nut wrench on the pressure line fitting. Plug the lines to prevent fluid loss and contaminants from entering.
Step 6
Unbolt and remove the power steering pump from its bracket.
Installation
Step 1
Install the replacement pump on the mounting bracket and tighten the nuts and bolts.
Step 2
Connect the lines and hoses to the pump. Make sure the pressure line fitting is secured tightly with the flare-nut wrench and the hoses are properly routed with their hose clamps tightened securely.
Step 3
Re-instal all other disconnected parts and components.
Step 4
Fill the power steering reservoir with ATF+4 automatic transmission fluid or an equivalent.
Step 5
Re-connect the battery cable.
Step 6
Bleed the power steering system by allowing the engine to run at fast idle, turning the wheels from side to side without hitting the stops and letting the van run for several more minutes with the wheels facing straight ahead.
References
- "Chilton Chrysler Caravan/Voyager/Town and Country Repair Manual"; John Wegmann; Haynes North America; 2006
Things You'll Need
- Siphon tool
- Container
- Jack
- Jack stands
- Flare-nut wrench
- Pliers
- Wrench
- Power steering fluid
Writer Bio
Chris Moore has been contributing to eHow since 2007 and is a member of the DFW Writers' Workshop. He received a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from the University of Texas-Arlington.
