Self repair of power steering pressure line...
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2005 Pontiac GTO 6.0 LS2 - Blue
Self repair of power steering pressure line...
The main pressure line leading from pump to rack was somehow cut by my 185MM crank pulley. I decided self repair would be possible, so what I did was cut the small sliced section off, and used 3/8th" metallic tube adapters to join in a new section of power steering line. It works somewhat, but the line always manages to pop off due to the pressure or movement.
I'm using medium turn based clamps to tighten the sections to the adapters. It appears that movement caused on the line during turning is what eventually allows it to pull off. I would like to get some opinions on the possibility of permanent self repair. The idea that comes to me right away is to tighten the clamps down really good, and then create a layer of high strength epoxy to join the sections together. The epoxy should prevent the tube from being able to slide off, or in theory at least. What are the chances of that being successful?
I've been looking into new replacement line, and from what I can find online it appears the replacement lines do not come with the metallic connections. They average $40-70 through different websites. Dealership quoted me at around $350 for new power steering line. I believe they sell the entire pressure and return line as one part number. I've also had little luck finding any local shops that can professionally repair the line.
Few days ago I had just got to my brothers place, and the line shot off, which then sprayed the belt, which then also fell off the pulleys. At that point I decided not to attempt another failed fix, and come up with some ideas first. Any help would really be appreciated! Thanks...
I'm using medium turn based clamps to tighten the sections to the adapters. It appears that movement caused on the line during turning is what eventually allows it to pull off. I would like to get some opinions on the possibility of permanent self repair. The idea that comes to me right away is to tighten the clamps down really good, and then create a layer of high strength epoxy to join the sections together. The epoxy should prevent the tube from being able to slide off, or in theory at least. What are the chances of that being successful?
I've been looking into new replacement line, and from what I can find online it appears the replacement lines do not come with the metallic connections. They average $40-70 through different websites. Dealership quoted me at around $350 for new power steering line. I believe they sell the entire pressure and return line as one part number. I've also had little luck finding any local shops that can professionally repair the line.
Few days ago I had just got to my brothers place, and the line shot off, which then sprayed the belt, which then also fell off the pulleys. At that point I decided not to attempt another failed fix, and come up with some ideas first. Any help would really be appreciated! Thanks...
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2005 Pontiac GTO 6.0 LS2 - Blue
Thanks for the help... Thought that's what these online forums were mainly for. Guess not... I would probably get more help on benzworld with 1/10th the amount of AMG users.
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From: Southern Cal
a C32 AMG & S-Works Tarmac
You need to give the forum more than 18 hours to come back with an answer to your rather unique question. Most people might actually have jobs to go to on Tuesday mornings.
Chill out.
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2005 Pontiac GTO 6.0 LS2 - Blue
Sorry, about that... I'm waiting for ideas, and can't drive my c32 until I get this sorted out. I did find OE pressure line listed at $250 online, and I can afford it. Just wondering if a self repair would be possible as it wouldn't cost nearly as much.
Last edited by gt4awd; Feb 2, 2010 at 08:16 PM.
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2012 C300 4Matic
You're going to destroy your power steering pump if you haven't already. Buy the right part.
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2005 Pontiac GTO 6.0 LS2 - Blue
You're going to destroy your power steering pump if you haven't already. Buy the right part.
I'm calling around to a few hydraulic shops tomorrow, and if I don't get anywhere with that I'll just get the OE pressure hose online. People have had good luck getting the line repaired at the right shops.
Last edited by gt4awd; Feb 2, 2010 at 09:54 PM.
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From: Orange County, CA
GMC - Miata - Trek - P-Car
Working hydraulic system pressure in our steering circuit can reach ~128 bar/1850 psi.
Earl’s and Aeroquip can fabricate suitable OE replacements, as can most well-equipped industrial supply outlets, for substantially less than the factory hose.
Earl’s offers prompt service since they’re in the neighborhood. :)
Perhaps a strategically placed Adel clamp or two will help ensure sufficient hose-to-pulley clearance on your subsequent installation.
Good luck.
http://www.aeroquip.cc/
http://www.anplumbing.com/shop/
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2005 Pontiac GTO 6.0 LS2 - Blue
Thanks for the reply, splinter. 1850 PSI that's a lot more than I had assumed! I'm amazed my quick fix actually worked decent... Found a local hydraulic shop, and they are willing to see if they can repair the line. Going to pull the line off the c32, and take it over to their shop today.
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From: Cave Creek, AZ
2012 Mercedes S63 P30, 2015 Mercedes GL550, 2009 BMW 650i Convertible
Check for a local Parker hose store. I've always had great luck with them, and I'm 99% sure they'd be able to replace the hose for you.
http://www.parker.com/portal/site/PA...oun=&modifier=
Bill
http://www.parker.com/portal/site/PA...oun=&modifier=
Bill
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2005 Pontiac GTO 6.0 LS2 - Blue
Bill, I was able to find a shop that can rebuild the line, but if it doesn't work out there I'll check out Parker. There are several local stores in my location. Thanks!
C32guy, good find on the P/S Pressure Line for $200! Depending on how the repair goes, or the estimated cost I might just purchase a new line...
To disconnect the pressure line at rack must the bottom cover plate be removed? We were looking at it today, and it appears the connection is placed on the top side of the rack next to the steering gear. Hopefully the rack doesn't have to be dropped to gain access. Anyone done DIY pressure line work on w203? Tips, and advice would be very helpful. Looks like I'll have to delay the job again due to busy work schedule...
C32guy, good find on the P/S Pressure Line for $200! Depending on how the repair goes, or the estimated cost I might just purchase a new line...
To disconnect the pressure line at rack must the bottom cover plate be removed? We were looking at it today, and it appears the connection is placed on the top side of the rack next to the steering gear. Hopefully the rack doesn't have to be dropped to gain access. Anyone done DIY pressure line work on w203? Tips, and advice would be very helpful. Looks like I'll have to delay the job again due to busy work schedule...
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From: Charlottesville
2006 C55 AMG, 2010 Genesis Coupe
Any good hydraulic shop should be able to build you a new hose. The only setback is the connecting nuts that go on the hose. If they dont have metric)if the hose fittings are metric) then they will need to use your fittings, but other than that it should be easy for them to remanufacture using yours as a pattern. As most industrial hydraulics can well exceed the pressures you are talking they should have the proper hose materials and diameters as well as the high pressure aluminum for the formed area..
If not 200-250 isnt bad to make sure you have the right part and have it back to factory specs.
If not 200-250 isnt bad to make sure you have the right part and have it back to factory specs.
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2005 Pontiac GTO 6.0 LS2 - Blue
Was able to get the pressure hose connection at the rack off today. The rack doesn't need to be dropped. You can carefully maneuver a ratchet with swivel socket in there... Doesn't have to swivel... At first we tried 3" extension and there wasn't enough room. The swivel put it out about 2", and that worked perfectly.
Dropped the line off at the shop about 15 minutes before they closed. He quoted me right below $60 for the repair job. Can't beat that... The hose will also be extended another 2" to avoid any clearance issues, and will be clamped down as splinter suggested.
My OE jack gave out today, and left a very nice damaged section in the passenger side skirt... Planning on finding good aftermarket side skirts. If anyone has suggestions for that let me know via PM.
Dropped the line off at the shop about 15 minutes before they closed. He quoted me right below $60 for the repair job. Can't beat that... The hose will also be extended another 2" to avoid any clearance issues, and will be clamped down as splinter suggested.
My OE jack gave out today, and left a very nice damaged section in the passenger side skirt... Planning on finding good aftermarket side skirts. If anyone has suggestions for that let me know via PM.
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2005 Pontiac GTO 6.0 LS2 - Blue
I did say I was sorry, and I'll say it again, I'm sorry everyone... I had just woke up, and started thinking about my parked C32 right away. Thought there would be some replies already. Anyways, that was my bad, and hopefully most of you will forgive me... The line has been repaired, and extended. Just waiting for a break with the job to get it done... 
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2005 E55
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2005 Pontiac GTO 6.0 LS2 - Blue
Have you ever tried to put a square block through a circular hole? That's about how impossible it was to reattach the pressure/return connection back onto the steering rack... C32 is up, and running again. Next project is going to have to be repair of the leaky oil cooler attached to the filter housing. That, and installation of the new battery I bought today...
Last edited by gt4awd; Feb 9, 2010 at 12:15 AM.
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Towed again... Pressure/return connection to rack suddenly started leaking. Bracket is in place correctly, and bolt in place. It's either the o-ring on pressure line connection, or where the line connects to the fitting has a leak. I was researching, and line to fitting leak is rare, but possible. I called dealership, and they told me the o-ring cannot be purchased by itself, and that it only comes with a new line. However, while researching I found a post where the guy said he bought new o-rings at the dealership. You guys think they are jerking me around? I should have saved myself the time, and money to just buy a new line... If I add up all the power steering fluid, tows, and repair of the line I'm well over the $200 it would have cost for a new line. What to do now? This car has some seriously bad karma...
Last edited by gt4awd; Feb 13, 2010 at 01:56 AM.
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Towed again... Pressure/return connection to rack suddenly started leaking. Bracket is in place correctly, and bolt in place. It's either the o-ring on pressure line connection, or where the line connects to the fitting has a leak. I was researching, and line to fitting leak is rare, but possible. I called dealership, and they told me the o-ring cannot be purchased by itself, and that it only comes with a new line. However, while researching I found a post where the guy said he bought new o-rings at the dealership. You guys think they are jerking me around? I should have saved myself the time, and money to just buy a new line... If I add up all the power steering fluid, tows, and repair of the line I'm well over the $200 it would have cost for a new line. What to do now? This car has some seriously bad karma...
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The problem is that the o-rings are not standard material. I would have to assume they are built out of a mix of materials that can withstand the high pressure of the steering system. It wasn't a problem with the bracket or bolt, as that was our first guess. After two hours working in the freezing parking lot it was certainly not the problem. I've looked around online, and found a few sources that do offer universal o-ring kits for high pressure liquid systems. Might give that a try if the dealership truly doesn't offer the replacements. I hate calling them as they can just lie to you, but when I go in person I have them pull up the diagram, and show me. I'll keep you guys updated. Will probably take the line off again, and back to the shop for a leak test as I'm not even sure if the o-ring is the problem. However, with eight year old rings I would assume so... Wouldn't have been so bad if the leak started at my place, but another $80 dollar tow was rough...
Last edited by gt4awd; Feb 13, 2010 at 09:58 PM.
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The problem is that the o-rings are not standard material. I would have to assume they are built out of a mix of materials that can withstand the high pressure of the steering system. It wasn't a problem with the bracket or bolt, as that was our first guess. After two hours working in the freezing parking lot it was certainly not the problem. I've looked around online, and found a few sources that do offer universal o-ring kits for high pressure liquid systems. Might give that a try if the dealership truly doesn't offer the replacements. I hate calling them as they can just lie to you, but when I go in person I have them pull up the diagram, and show me. I'll keep you guys updated. Will probably take the line off again, and back to the shop for a leak test as I'm not even sure if the o-ring is the problem. However, with eight year old rings I would assume so... Wouldn't have been so bad if the leak started at my place, but another $80 dollar tow was rough...
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2005 C55, 1988 260E, 2000 Chevrolet Silverado
If it is the return or low pressure side it's A 027 997 95 48 should only cost a buck or two looking at my old price sheet.
Towed again... Pressure/return connection to rack suddenly started leaking. Bracket is in place correctly, and bolt in place. It's either the o-ring on pressure line connection, or where the line connects to the fitting has a leak. I was researching, and line to fitting leak is rare, but possible. I called dealership, and they told me the o-ring cannot be purchased by itself, and that it only comes with a new line. However, while researching I found a post where the guy said he bought new o-rings at the dealership. You guys think they are jerking me around? I should have saved myself the time, and money to just buy a new line... If I add up all the power steering fluid, tows, and repair of the line I'm well over the $200 it would have cost for a new line. What to do now? This car has some seriously bad karma...
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2005 Pontiac GTO 6.0 LS2 - Blue
If it is the return or low pressure side it's A 027 997 95 48 should only cost a buck or two looking at my old price sheet.
Edit: The return and high pressure to rack both use the same o-ring.
Last edited by gt4awd; Feb 16, 2010 at 12:31 AM.
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2005 Pontiac GTO 6.0 LS2 - Blue
I pulled the o-rings at rack connections. They both feel, and look the same except for one difference. The pressure line o-ring is green instead of black... Can someone confirm or deny that both the pressure, and return line use the same o-ring? I have two "027-997-95-48" o-rings, but need to make sure things get done right. Star has this information listed... Even more confusing the part number listed in Star is different. 
