Steering - Power Steering Fluid Leak When Cold

Bulletin No: 06-002/02

Last Issued: 06/18/2002

Subject:
POWER STEERING FLUID LEAK IN COLD TEMPERATURES

APPLICABLE MODEL(S)/VINs
2001-2002 Tributes built before 2/12/2002.

DESCRIPTION

Some vehicles built before 2/12/2002 may exhibit a power steering leak at the Return Hose and/or Cooler Hose at the Intermediate Tube Assembly during extreme cold ambient temperatures -20 to -28°C (-5 to -20°F). This may be caused by hose blow out due to an increase in fluid viscosity during extreme cold temperatures.

To prevent this condition from happening:

^ Replace the Intermediate Tube with a steel Intermediate Tube.

^ Replace spring type clamps on Return Hose and Cooler Hose with worm type clamps to increase host retention.

Customers having this concern should have their vehicle repaired using the following procedure.

REPAIR PROCEDURE

1. Verify concern.





2. Remove Engine Coolant Reservoir with hoses attached and set it aside to gain access to the Intermediate Tube.





3. Replace Intermediate Tube with new part.

4. Reinstall Cooler and Return Hoses using worm clamps.

5. Bleed all of the air from steering system according to Workshop Manual (section 06-12 PURGING).

6. Verify repair.





PART(S) INFORMATION





WARRANTY INFORMATION

Note:
This information applies to verified customer complaints on vehicles covered under normal warranty. Refer to the SRT microfiche for warranty term information.





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