Power Steering Reservoir

Remove and replace the power steering fluid reservoir on a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine with 390ci V8 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power steering reservoir × 1 — Use OEM specification or compatible aftermarket
• Power steering reservoir cap with dipstick × 1 — Included with reservoir or separate
• Hose clamps × 2 — 5/8" worm-drive clamps

Fluids

• Power steering fluid (Type A automatic transmission fluid) — 1 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
3. Place fender covers or rags over driver's side fender to protect paint
4. Position drain pan under work area
5. Use turkey baster or fluid pump to remove as much fluid as possible from reservoir

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect return hose
   Locate the lower return hose connected to the bottom of the reservoir. Using pliers, squeeze and slide the hose clamp back away from the reservoir fitting approximately 2 inches. Twist and pull the hose off the reservoir nipple. Allow remaining fluid to drain into the pan.
2. 2

   Disconnect pressure hose
   Locate the upper pressure hose from the pump connected to the side or bottom of the reservoir. Squeeze and slide the hose clamp back away from the fitting. Twist and pull the hose off the reservoir. Additional fluid will drain; keep drain pan positioned underneath.
3. 3

   Remove reservoir mounting bracket
   The reservoir is held by a metal mounting bracket secured to the inner fender. Remove the mounting bolt(s) securing the bracket to the fender using appropriate wrench. On some configurations, the bracket may be a simple strap; on others it may be a formed bracket with one or two bolts.
4. 4

   Remove reservoir
   Lift the reservoir up and out of the mounting bracket. Tilt as needed to drain any remaining fluid into the drain pan. Inspect the mounting bracket for damage or severe corrosion; clean or replace if necessary.
5. 5

   Inspect hoses and fittings
   Examine both hoses for cracks, softness, or deterioration. Check the hose ends for splitting or permanent deformation. Inspect the metal fittings on the new reservoir to ensure they are clean and free from burrs. Replace hoses if any damage is found.
6. 6

   Install new reservoir in bracket
   Position the new reservoir into the mounting bracket, ensuring it sits properly in the bracket cradle. Install and finger-tighten the mounting bolt(s) to the inner fender. Do not fully tighten yet to allow slight adjustment when connecting hoses.
7. 7

   Connect pressure hose
   Push the pressure hose firmly onto the reservoir fitting until it bottoms out. Slide a new or reusable hose clamp over the hose and position it 1/4 inch from the end of the hose. Tighten the clamp securely using a flat blade screwdriver.
8. 8

   Connect return hose
   Push the return hose firmly onto the reservoir fitting until it seats completely. Position a hose clamp 1/4 inch from the end of the hose and tighten securely. Ensure both hoses are routed without kinks or sharp bends.
9. 9

   Secure mounting bracket
   Verify the reservoir sits properly with both hoses connected without strain. Tighten the mounting bracket bolt(s) firmly to secure the reservoir to the inner fender.
10. 10

    Fill reservoir with fluid
    Remove the reservoir cap and fill with fresh power steering fluid (Type A ATF) to the cold fill line on the dipstick. Do not overfill. Replace the cap.
11. 11

    Bleed air from system
    Start the engine and let it idle. Turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock 3-4 times without holding at the stops. Check fluid level and add as needed. Repeat the lock-to-lock procedure until no more bubbles appear in the reservoir and the fluid level stabilizes.

Reassembly

1. Verify all hose clamps are tight and properly positioned
2. Confirm reservoir mounting bracket is secure
3. Clean any spilled fluid from engine bay and fenders

Verification

• Check fluid level with engine at idle and adjust to proper level on dipstick
• Inspect all connections for leaks while engine is running
• Turn steering wheel lock to lock and verify smooth operation without noise
• Re-check fluid level after test drive and top off if necessary
• Verify no fluid leaks are present around reservoir or hose connections

More procedures for this vehicle