Power Steering Hose Kit

A: Choose the kit according to the installed pump, steering box or rack and the required routing:

• Choose the AN6/AN10 PTFE power steering hose kit for compatible custom GM or Ford steering systems that require AN6 pressure lines and a larger AN10 return line.
• Choose the Chevy C10 pressure and return line kit for a compatible C10 LS swap using a GM Type II power steering pump and a compact preassembled hose layout.
• Choose the cut-to-fit AN6 CPE kit when an LS1 or LS3 conversion requires longer custom power steering lines.
• Choose the AN6 CPE and PTFE kit for a compatible Saginaw or GM Type II pump installation.
• Choose the 3FT AN6 braided PTFE kit for a compatible GM or Mustang II application that requires a shorter PTFE hose configuration.

Before ordering, verify every port thread, sealing method, hose length and system-pressure requirement. A compatible engine or vehicle year does not guarantee that the installed steering components use the original ports.

A: In the U.S. aftermarket, a power steering hose or hose assembly typically costs about $20 to $270, before tax and shipping. A basic low-pressure return hose is usually less expensive, while a vehicle-specific power steering pressure hose, preassembled hose assembly or complete custom AN kit generally costs more.

Professional replacement may bring the total to approximately $150 to $800 or more, depending on the vehicle, labor access, required fittings, power steering fluid, system flushing and bleeding. Some applications using expensive OEM assemblies can exceed this range.

For an LS swap or custom steering conversion, compare the complete power steering hose kit, not only the price of one hose. Check whether the kit includes both pressure and return lines, reusable hose ends and the adapters required for the pump and steering box or rack. Current Evil Energy kit prices are displayed on the product cards above.

A: A typical power steering hose diagram follows this fluid path:

Reservoir → Pump → High Pressure Power Steering Hose → Steering Box or Rack → Return Line → Reservoir

Some systems also include a cooler in the return circuit. Use the diagram for the specific pump and steering unit because the pressure and return ports may be positioned close together while using different threads or sealing methods. Never identify the ports only by their physical position.

A: A power steering hose leak may cause one or more of the following symptoms:

• Visible power steering fluid beneath the front of the vehicle
• Wetness or oily residue around a hose end, adapter or steering-port connection
• A power steering fluid level that continues to drop after being topped off
• Whining or groaning from the power steering pump, especially while turning
• Foamy fluid or visible air bubbles inside the reservoir
• Steering that becomes heavier or inconsistent at low speeds
• A cracked, swollen, kinked or unusually soft section of hose
• Frayed outer braid or visible damage where the power steering line contacts a bracket, sharp edge, pulley or hot exhaust component

Turn off the engine before inspecting the system, and never use your hand to locate a leak in a pressurized power steering pressure hose. A wet fitting may indicate an incorrect adapter, damaged sealing surface or loose connection. A hose with cracking, bulging, exposed reinforcement or heat damage should be replaced rather than patched. If fluid is leaking rapidly or steering assist has changed, do not continue driving until the problem has been corrected.

A: Follow the bleeding procedure specified by the pump, steering gear or rack manufacturer. In a typical manual procedure, fill the reservoir with the approved fluid, keep the reservoir from running dry, and slowly turn the steering from side to side to move trapped air back to the reservoir. Start the engine only when instructed by the component manufacturer, continue monitoring the fluid for bubbles, and avoid holding the steering against either stop. When the fluid remains clear and the pump operates quietly, correct the fluid level and inspect every power steering line connection for leaks before driving.