Power Steering Hose - Return

Replace the power steering return hose on a 2014 Ram 2500 with 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine, including fluid drain and refill procedures.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power steering return hose × 1 — Use OEM specification
• O-rings for power steering fittings × 2 — Use OEM specification
• Hose clamps (if not included with hose) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Mopar ATF+4 — 1.5 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
3. Place drain pan underneath power steering pump and reservoir area
4. Inspect new return hose and verify correct part number matches original
5. Have clean shop towels ready to contain fluid spillage
6. Raise front of vehicle if additional clearance is needed for access

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate and inspect power steering return hose
   Open hood and locate the power steering return hose running from the steering gear/rack back to the power steering reservoir. The return hose is the low-pressure line, typically larger diameter than the high-pressure supply line. Inspect the routing and note any mounting clips or brackets securing the hose along its path.
2. 2

   Drain power steering fluid
   Position drain pan under the power steering reservoir. Use a fluid transfer pump to remove as much fluid as possible from the reservoir. This minimizes spillage during hose removal. If no pump is available, proceed with caution as fluid will drain when hose is disconnected.
3. 3

   Disconnect return hose at reservoir
   Locate the return hose connection at the power steering reservoir (typically the lower connection). Use hose clamp pliers or appropriate tool to release the hose clamp. Carefully twist and pull the hose off the reservoir fitting. Allow remaining fluid to drain into pan. If hose is stuck, carefully use a small flathead screwdriver to break the seal, taking care not to damage the reservoir fitting.
4. 4

   Disconnect return hose at steering gear
   Trace the return hose to its connection point at the steering gear/rack. Position drain pan to catch fluid. Use appropriate line wrench to loosen the threaded fitting at the steering gear. The return line may have either a compression fitting or threaded connection. Once loosened, carefully remove the fitting and allow fluid to drain. Remove any mounting clips or brackets securing the hose along its route.
5. 5

   Remove old return hose
   Carefully extract the old return hose from the engine bay, noting its exact routing path, especially where it passes near hot exhaust components or sharp edges. Take photos if necessary for reference during installation. Inspect the old hose for the cause of failure (cracks, leaks, chafing) to ensure new hose is routed to avoid similar issues.
6. 6

   Prepare new return hose
   Inspect new return hose to verify it matches the original length and fitting configuration. Install new O-rings on any threaded fittings, lightly lubricating them with clean ATF+4. If using reusable hose clamps, inspect them for damage and replace if necessary. Ensure new clamps are positioned on the hose before installation.
7. 7

   Route and install new return hose
   Route the new return hose along the same path as the original, ensuring it does not contact hot exhaust components, sharp edges, or moving parts. Verify adequate clearance for suspension travel and steering movement. Install any mounting clips or brackets that secure the hose along its route, ensuring the hose is not kinked or twisted.
8. 8

   Connect return hose at steering gear
   Install the return hose fitting at the steering gear connection point. If using a threaded fitting, hand-tighten first to ensure proper thread engagement. Use a line wrench to tighten the fitting. Apply even pressure and avoid over-tightening which can damage the O-ring seal.
   Torque spec

   Power Steering Line Fittings30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Connect return hose at reservoir
   Push the return hose firmly onto the reservoir fitting until it is fully seated. The hose should be pushed on at least 1 inch past the barb or ridge on the fitting. Position the hose clamp over the connection point and tighten securely. Ensure the clamp is not positioned over a hose seam or directly on the fitting ridge.
10. 10

    Fill power steering system
    Fill the power steering reservoir with new Mopar ATF+4 fluid to the COLD fill line. Do not overfill. Use a clean funnel to prevent contamination. Allow fluid to settle for a few minutes.
11. 11

    Bleed power steering system
    With engine off, turn steering wheel lock-to-lock (full left to full right) 10-15 times to purge air from the system. Check fluid level frequently and add as needed. Start engine and allow to idle. Turn steering wheel lock-to-lock again 3-5 times while engine is running. Check for leaks at all connection points. Turn engine off and recheck fluid level, topping off to the HOT fill line if needed.

Reassembly

1. Verify all hose clamps are properly tightened and positioned
2. Ensure hose routing provides adequate clearance from exhaust and moving components
3. Double-check that all mounting clips and brackets are installed
4. Clean any spilled power steering fluid from engine bay and undercarriage

Verification

• Start engine and verify no leaks at reservoir or steering gear connections
• Turn steering wheel through full range of motion in both directions and listen for abnormal noises
• Check power steering fluid level when engine is at operating temperature and add if necessary
• Test drive vehicle and verify normal power steering operation with no leaks or unusual sounds
• Recheck fluid level after test drive and inspect all connections for signs of seepage
• Monitor fluid level over the next few days of normal operation

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