Power steering hoses are subjected to a harsh environment. They must operate in temperature ranges of –30 degrees F to up over +300 degrees F. Internally, hoses must transfer fluid under pressures of up to 1,500 PSI. While transferring fluid, they must absorb the pressure surges and pulsations and expand and contract to help control noise in the power steering system. Hoses must also resist external wear factors - ozone, grease, oil, road debris, wear from rubbing and stress being applied from engine torque. It's no wonder power steering hoses deteriorate.

But Most power steering hoses deteriorate from the inside out - something that is not visible. Small flakes of metal from worn parts and other impurities in the fluid begin to deteriorate the hose from inside. Rubber particles then begin to flake off from the interior walls. As deterioration advances, more and more particles are pushed through the system. As more and bigger particles appear, chances are pump, gear or rack failure could occur. Rubber particles commonly block orifices and stick the flow control valve in the pump and can cause accelerated wear of the control valve housing in the steering gear or rack & pinion, leading to complete and expensive system failure.

Power steering hoses are a maintenance item. Hoses should be replaced every 40 - 50,000 miles. Hoses should also be replaced whenever a new or remanufactured pump, gear or rack are installed to avoid premature failure. In order to provide your customer with proper service, power steering hoses should be inspected every time radiator hoses and fan belts are checked, or a minimum of every 10,000 miles.

PROPER POWER STEERING HOSE INSPECTION PROCEDURE

If any of the following conditions are found, replace the hoses. Remember, if one hose shows signs of wear, always replace all hoses, as all hoses in the system are subjected to the same conditions, contiminants and wear. It should always be a routine practice to flush and bleed the power steering system whenever any component or hose is changed to avoid contaminating new parts.

• Check tubing for corrosion, abrasion or cracks.    
• Check the hose to coupling connection for leaks or drips.    
• Look for small pinholes or cracks in the hose covers.    
• The brittleness or hardness of the hose is an early sign that the hose has lost its ability to absorb pressure surges.    
• A soft, spongy hose is a more serious sign of wear, indicating advanced internal deterioration and probable leakage.    
• Thick fluid in the pump reservoir indicates internal hose deterioration.    
• A black, silver or gray power steering fluid and/or burnt smell indicates that the seals on the spool valve have worn grooves in the rack or gear control valve housing. Rubber and metal particles have circulated throughout the system. In addition to replacing the hoses, the rack or gear should also be replaced. The system must be thoroughly flushed, also.

Remember the forgotten maintenance item....... POWER STEERING HOSES. Inspect them each time you open the hood. You'll be doing yourself and your customer a favor.