steering

Power Steering Hose - Return

for 2017 Dodge Viper 8.4L V10 · RWD

Difficulty

Moderate

Time

1.4 h

Tools

Steps

✓Fact-checked. Built from OLP's spec database, then independently fact-checked line by line with every correction applied. Master-tech sign-off by Chris Hackleman is queued. Cross-check torque values against the factory manual, and stop if anything looks unsafe. How our data is made.

This procedure replaces the power steering return hose on a 2008 Dodge Viper equipped with the 8.4L V10 engine, requiring access from below and draining the power steering system.

Warnings

⚠Power steering fluid is flammable and can damage paint. Clean spills immediately and ensure proper ventilation.

⚠The Viper's low ground clearance requires secure jack stand placement. Use proper lifting points to avoid chassis damage.

ℹ️Power steering fluid may be hot if the vehicle was recently driven. Allow the engine to cool before beginning work.

Tools required

Floor jack and jack standsEssential

Drain pan (minimum 2 quart capacity)Essential

Hose clamp pliers or flathead screwdriverEssential

Shop towels or ragsEssential

Line wrench set (if hard line connections present)

Turkey baster or fluid pump

Flashlight or work lightEssential

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Parts

Power steering return hose × 1 — Use OEM specification
Hose clamps (if not integrated with hose) × 2 — Use OEM specification

As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.

Fluids

Mopar ATF+4 — 1.5 qt

Preparation

Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake
Allow the engine to cool if recently driven
Raise the front of the vehicle and support securely on jack stands at the manufacturer-designated lift points
Place the drain pan beneath the power steering reservoir and pump area

Procedure

1
Drain power steering reservoir
Open the hood and locate the power steering fluid reservoir on the driver's side of the engine bay. Use a turkey baster or fluid pump to remove as much fluid as possible from the reservoir to minimize spillage during hose removal. Transfer the fluid to the drain pan.
2
Access return hose from below
Position yourself beneath the vehicle with adequate lighting. Locate the power steering return hose, which runs from the steering rack or cooler (if equipped) back to the power steering pump reservoir. The return hose is the lower-pressure line, typically smaller in diameter than the high-pressure supply line, and uses clamp-type connections rather than threaded fittings.
3
Remove reservoir-end hose connection
Trace the return hose to its connection at the power steering pump reservoir. Using hose clamp pliers or a flathead screwdriver, loosen the hose clamp securing the return hose to the reservoir nipple. Slide the clamp back along the hose away from the connection point. Position the drain pan directly below and twist the hose while pulling to separate it from the reservoir. Allow fluid to drain from both the hose and reservoir.
4
Remove steering rack-end connection
Follow the return hose to its connection at the steering rack (typically on the passenger side) or power steering cooler if equipped. Loosen the hose clamp at this connection point using hose clamp pliers or flathead screwdriver. Slide the clamp back and twist the hose while pulling to separate it from the fitting. Allow any remaining fluid to drain into the pan. Keep shop towels ready to catch residual fluid.
5
Remove intermediate clamps and routing hardware
Inspect the hose routing for any intermediate securing points, clips, or brackets holding the hose to the chassis or engine components. Release any retaining clips by squeezing the tabs or removing fasteners as needed. Note the exact routing path and clip positions for installation of the new hose.
6
Extract old return hose
Carefully maneuver the old return hose out of the engine bay, working it past any obstructions. Pay attention to the routing path, noting how it passes near the engine, exhaust components, and chassis members. Take a photo if necessary for reference during installation.
7
Prepare new return hose
Compare the new return hose to the old hose to verify correct length, diameter, and fitting configuration. If the new hose does not include pre-installed clamps, transfer the old clamps if they are in good condition or install new clamps by sliding them onto each end of the new hose.
8
Route new return hose
Route the new return hose through the engine bay following the exact path of the original hose. Ensure the hose does not contact hot exhaust components, sharp edges, or moving parts. The hose should have adequate clearance and follow a natural curve without kinks or sharp bends.
9
Connect steering rack end
Push the steering rack end of the return hose firmly onto the fitting until it is fully seated. The hose should slide onto the nipple approximately 1 to 1.5 inches. Position the hose clamp over the connection point (approximately 0.5 inches from the end of the hose) and tighten securely using hose clamp pliers or a flathead screwdriver. Ensure the clamp engages the raised bead on the fitting if present.
10
Connect reservoir end
Push the reservoir end of the return hose firmly onto the power steering pump reservoir nipple until fully seated. Position the hose clamp over the connection point and tighten securely. Verify both connections are tight and the hose is properly seated on both fittings.
11
Secure hose routing
Reinstall all intermediate clips and brackets to secure the hose in its proper routing path. Ensure the hose is held firmly but not compressed or kinked. Double-check clearance from exhaust components and moving parts throughout the routing path.
12
Fill power steering system
Lower the vehicle from the jack stands. Fill the power steering reservoir with the manufacturer-specified power steering fluid (verify Mopar ATF+4 vs. dedicated Mopar power steering fluid against the FSM) to the cold fill line marked on the reservoir. Do not overfill.
13
Bleed power steering system
Start the engine and allow it to idle. Turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock 3 to 5 times without holding it at the stops. Check the fluid level and add as necessary. The fluid level will drop as the system fills. Continue turning the wheel and checking fluid until the level stabilizes and no air bubbles are visible in the reservoir. Top off to the proper level.

Reassembly

Installation is completion of the steps above, with particular attention to proper hose routing and clamp tightness
Ensure all hose clamps are positioned correctly over connection points and tightened securely
Verify adequate clearance between the return hose and all hot or moving components

Verification

With the engine running, inspect all hose connections for leaks while turning the steering wheel from lock to lock
Check the power steering fluid level and verify it is at the proper hot level after the system reaches operating temperature
Test drive the vehicle and verify normal power steering operation with no unusual noises or leaks
Recheck all connections and fluid level after test drive