Power Steering Reservoir

Remove and replace the power steering fluid reservoir on a 2005 Dodge Viper, including draining fluid, disconnecting hoses, and refilling the system.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power steering reservoir × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Reservoir mounting grommet (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Hose clamps (if damaged or stripped) × 2 — Use OEM specification or appropriate sized worm-gear clamps

Fluids

• ATF+4 — 1.5 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake.
2. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated.
3. Place drain pan under work area to catch fluid spillage.
4. Open hood and secure with prop rod.

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain the power steering reservoir
   Use a fluid pump or turkey baster to remove as much fluid as possible from the reservoir. This minimizes spillage during hose removal. Dispose of old fluid properly according to local regulations.
2. 2

   Disconnect the reservoir cap and strainer
   Remove the reservoir cap by turning counterclockwise. The cap may have an integrated fluid level dipstick. Set aside in a clean location. Note the orientation of the strainer/filter screen inside the reservoir neck for proper reinstallation.
3. 3

   Remove the return hose
   Locate the return hose (lower hose) connected to the bottom or side of the reservoir. Using hose clamp pliers, compress or loosen the spring clamp or worm-gear clamp securing the hose. Slide the clamp away from the connection point. Twist and pull the hose off the reservoir nipple. Remaining fluid will drain; ensure drain pan is positioned to catch it.
4. 4

   Remove the pressure supply hose
   Locate the low-pressure feed/suction hose (upper hose) that supplies fluid from the reservoir to the pump. Release the hose clamp using the same method as the return hose. Twist and pull the hose off the reservoir nipple. Additional fluid may drain from this connection.
5. 5

   Remove reservoir mounting hardware
   The reservoir is secured to its bracket with 2 mounting bolts. Remove both bolts completely using the appropriate metric socket. Support the reservoir with one hand while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
6. 6

   Remove the reservoir
   Lift the reservoir straight up and out of the engine bay. Inspect the mounting bracket and grommet for damage or deterioration. Clean the mounting area and bracket with shop towels to remove any spilled fluid or debris.
7. 7

   Install the new reservoir
   Position the new reservoir onto the mounting bracket, ensuring any grommets or insulators are properly seated. Align the mounting holes with the bracket. Install the 2 mounting bolts and tighten to specification in a cross pattern.
8. 8

   Reconnect the pressure supply hose
   Push the supply hose firmly onto the upper nipple of the new reservoir until it bottoms out. Slide the hose clamp into position approximately 1/4 inch from the end of the nipple and secure it. Ensure the clamp is tight enough to prevent leaks but not over-tightened to damage the hose.
9. 9

   Reconnect the return hose
   Push the return hose firmly onto the lower nipple of the reservoir until it seats completely. Position and secure the hose clamp in the same manner as the supply hose. Verify both hose connections are secure by attempting to twist and pull each hose.
10. 10

    Fill the reservoir with ATF+4
    Pour the manufacturer-specified power steering fluid (verify OEM specification — Viper V10 typically uses Mopar Power Steering Fluid, not ATF+4) into the reservoir until it reaches the FULL COLD mark on the dipstick or reservoir body. The total system capacity should be confirmed against OEM documentation; fill only to the cold mark initially. Do not overfill.
11. 11

    Bleed the power steering system
    With the engine off, turn the steering wheel fully left and right 10-15 times to circulate fluid and purge air from the system. Check the reservoir level frequently and add fluid as needed to maintain the proper level. Start the engine and let it idle. Turn the steering wheel fully left and right several times while the engine runs. Check for leaks at all hose connections. Add fluid as necessary to bring the level to the FULL HOT mark with the engine at operating temperature.

Reassembly

1. Reassembly is covered in the installation steps above.
2. Ensure all hose clamps are properly positioned and tightened.
3. Verify reservoir cap is installed securely.

Verification

• With engine running, verify no fluid leaks are present at the reservoir or hose connections.
• Turn steering wheel lock-to-lock several times and confirm smooth operation with no noise or binding.
• Check fluid level with engine at operating temperature and top off to FULL HOT mark if needed.
• Test drive vehicle and verify power steering assists properly in both directions.
• Recheck fluid level after test drive and inspect for any new leaks.

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