This procedure covers draining, flushing, and refilling the power steering system on a 2014 Ram 2500 with 6.7L Cummins diesel engine, including inspection of hoses and connections.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power steering filter (if equipped) × 1 — Check service manual for filter presence

Fluids

• Mopar ATF+4 — 2 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Allow engine and power steering system to cool completely
4. Open hood and locate power steering reservoir on driver side of engine bay
5. Clean area around reservoir cap to prevent contamination

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove old fluid from reservoir
   Remove the power steering reservoir cap. Use a turkey baster or fluid transfer pump to extract as much old fluid as possible from the reservoir. Transfer old fluid to a drain pan. Continue extracting until reservoir is as empty as possible.
2. 2

   Raise and support vehicle
   Lift the front of the vehicle using a floor jack at the factory jacking points. Support the vehicle securely on jack stands rated for the vehicle weight. Ensure the vehicle is stable before proceeding. The front wheels must be off the ground to allow free steering movement.
   ⚠️Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always use properly rated jack stands.
3. 3

   Disconnect return hose
   Locate the power steering return hose (lower hose) at the reservoir. Place drain pan under connection point. Loosen hose clamp and carefully disconnect return hose from reservoir. Allow fluid to drain completely from hose and system into drain pan. Inspect return hose for cracks, deterioration, or damage.
4. 4

   Flush system with fresh fluid
   With return hose still disconnected and directed into drain pan, fill reservoir with fresh Mopar ATF+4 fluid. Have an assistant slowly turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock (full left to full right) several times while you monitor fluid level and flow from return hose. Continue adding fresh fluid to reservoir as needed. Repeat this process until fluid exiting return hose runs clear and red, indicating old fluid has been flushed out. This typically requires 1-1.5 quarts of fluid.
   ⚠Do not allow reservoir to run dry during flushing, as this will introduce air into the system and damage the pump.
5. 5

   Reconnect return hose
   Once fluid runs clear, reconnect the return hose to the reservoir fitting. Ensure hose is fully seated on the nipple. Tighten hose clamp securely but avoid over-tightening which can damage the hose.
6. 6

   Inspect pressure line and fittings
   Inspect the high-pressure power steering line (connects pump to steering gear) for leaks, damage, or signs of wear. Check the pressure line fitting at the pump for tightness. If any connections were loosened during service, ensure proper seating and torque to specification with new O-rings installed.
   Torque spec

   Pressure Line Fitting46 Nm (34 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Fill reservoir to proper level
   Add fresh Mopar ATF+4 to the reservoir until fluid level reaches the COLD MAX mark on the reservoir or dipstick. Do not overfill. The reservoir typically holds approximately 1 quart when filled to proper level.
8. 8

   Bleed air from system
   With vehicle still raised and wheels off ground, have assistant start engine and let idle. Slowly turn steering wheel lock-to-lock 10-15 times, pausing briefly at each extreme. Monitor reservoir level and add fluid as needed to maintain proper level. Continue until no air bubbles are visible in reservoir and steering operation is smooth. Turn off engine.
   ⚠Do not hold steering wheel against stops for more than 5 seconds, as this creates excessive pressure and heat in the system.
9. 9

   Lower vehicle and final check
   Lower vehicle from jack stands to the ground. Start engine and turn steering wheel lock-to-lock several times with wheels on ground. Check fluid level with engine running and fluid at operating temperature - level should be at HOT MAX mark. Add fluid if necessary. Inspect all connections for leaks.

Reassembly

1. Install and secure reservoir cap
2. Wipe up any spilled fluid from engine bay and components
3. Dispose of old power steering fluid according to local environmental regulations - do not pour down drains
4. Record service date and mileage for maintenance records

Verification

• Start engine and verify smooth power steering operation with no noise or binding
• Confirm fluid level is at HOT MAX mark with engine at operating temperature
• Check for any leaks at reservoir, hose connections, and pressure line fittings
• Test drive vehicle and verify steering effort is normal in both directions
• Verify no whining, groaning, or cavitation noises from power steering pump
• Recheck fluid level after test drive and top off if necessary

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