Hello All,

Just wanted to check to see if anyone had replaced a high pressure power steering line on a 1999 STS? I do have access to a lift but have heard the engine may need to be lifted or lowered for this work to be done. That sounds daunting. Sure would appreciate anyone's help. Thank you.

Mark

 

You'll need access to the fittings on the rack and in that case the engine craddle needs to be lowered two to three inchesto gain proper access. Doing it on a lift is easier/safer than on jack stands. You'll need to support the craddle with extension stands. Probably a job left to an experienced mechanic.

 

Thanks for you help. I have done some restoration work on cars and would love to give this a try. I'm in no rush. I assume you support the engine with jack stands, unbolt the craddle and lower it for clearance. Any idea how many bolts or their location. Thanks.

Mark

 

Powertrain is supported on the ends. Sub-frame can stay in place. The question is how high you can raise car. on the typical 3 ton or smaller jack stands it will be very difficult. 18mm fitting on rack. P/S will bleed itself just turn steering wheel, but don't let pump just whine fluid will be airiated so turn car off and let bubbles clear. then restart till bubbles dont come back.

 

Thanks Slowroll,

I will be raising the car on a lift so it will beabout 5'feet in the air. Can I get to the high pressure hose connection at the steering gear without lowering the sub frame?Thanks.

Mark

 

I had a Deville up about two weeks ago and I think you might be able to get in there without lowering the craddle. Be careful though because you dont want to ruin the fittings by getting a bad grip on the nuts. It is worth a try.

 

Hi Guys,
Got the car up on the lift and took pictures, but I do not know if I can attach them on this site? Pictures would be nice. I believe I can get to the nut. Sprayed some liquid wrench and found the electrical connection. Thanks.

Mark

 

Just wanted to thankeveryone for their help. I was able to remove and replace the high pressure power steering hose without lowering any engine supports. I did have access to a lift and I did need to purchase an 18mm flare nut wrench (my set went up to 17). Besides the wrench being a tight fit, my biggest challenge was removing and snaking the hose back in place. I detached the electric sensor on the re-install and that helped. (14mm wrench for this fitting) Local Cadillac dealer wanted $575, Autozone part cost $48 plus $3 for power steering fluid. Thanks all!

Mark