This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the power steering fluid reservoir on a 2014 Ram 2500 with the 6.7L Cummins diesel engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power steering reservoir × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Power steering line O-rings × 2 — Use OEM specification
• Hose clamps (if damaged) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Mopar ATF+4 — 1 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
4. Locate power steering reservoir on driver side of engine compartment near firewall
5. Place drain pan beneath work area to catch fluid spillage

Procedure

1. 1

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

   Disconnect return hose
   Locate the lower return hose on the reservoir. Use pliers to slide the hose clamp down the hose away from the reservoir fitting. Pull the hose straight off the reservoir nipple. Allow remaining fluid to drain into the pan. Inspect the hose clamp and replace if damaged or weakened.
3. 3

   Disconnect pressure line
   Locate the high-pressure line fitting on the side or bottom of the reservoir. Use a line wrench or appropriate socket to loosen the threaded fitting. Be prepared for fluid to leak out. Once loose, carefully unthread the fitting by hand and move the line aside. Note the position and condition of the O-ring on the line fitting.
4. 4

   Remove reservoir mounting hardware
   Locate the mounting bolts securing the reservoir to the bracket. On this application, there are typically two bolts on the mounting bracket. Remove both mounting bolts using a 13mm socket. Support the reservoir as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts37 Nm (27 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove reservoir
   Carefully lift the reservoir up and out of the engine compartment. Tilt it to drain any remaining fluid into the drain pan. Inspect the mounting bracket and surrounding area for damage or excessive fluid accumulation that might indicate previous leaks.
6. 6

   Prepare new reservoir
   Remove the new reservoir from packaging and verify it matches the original. Install new O-rings on both the pressure line fitting and return hose nipple (if applicable to your reservoir design). Lightly lubricate the new O-rings with clean ATF+4 fluid before installation to prevent damage during assembly.
7. 7

   Install new reservoir
   Position the new reservoir into the mounting bracket, aligning the mounting holes. Start both mounting bolts by hand to ensure proper thread engagement. Tighten the mounting bolts to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts37 Nm (27 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Reconnect pressure line
   Inspect the pressure line fitting and install a new O-ring if not already done. Thread the pressure line fitting into the reservoir by hand until snug, ensuring it threads smoothly without cross-threading. Tighten the fitting to specification using a torque wrench or line wrench.
   ⚠Cross-threading this fitting will damage the new reservoir. Always start fittings by hand and ensure smooth threading before applying torque.
   Torque spec

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

   Reconnect return hose
   Push the return hose firmly onto the reservoir nipple until it is fully seated. Slide the hose clamp into position approximately 1/4 inch from the end of the nipple. Ensure the clamp is tight enough to prevent leaks but not so tight that it damages the hose.
10. 10

    Fill system with fluid
    Fill the reservoir with new Mopar ATF+4 fluid to the FULL COLD mark on the reservoir. Do not overfill. Start with approximately 1 quart and add more as needed during the bleeding process.
11. 11

    Bleed power steering system
    With the engine off, turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock 10-15 times to circulate fluid and purge air. Check fluid level frequently and add as needed to maintain proper level. Start the engine and let it idle. Turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock 3-4 times. Check for leaks at all connections. Shut off engine and recheck fluid level, topping off to the FULL HOT mark if at operating temperature or FULL COLD mark if cool.
    ⚠Do not hold the steering wheel at full lock for more than 5 seconds as this can overheat the power steering pump and cause damage.

Reassembly

1. Verify all connections are tight and properly torqued
2. Clean any spilled power steering fluid from engine compartment and painted surfaces
3. Verify fluid level is at the appropriate mark for engine temperature

Verification

• Start engine and verify smooth power steering operation with no unusual noises
• Turn steering wheel fully in both directions and verify no binding or resistance
• Check all connections for leaks while engine is running
• Test drive vehicle and verify normal steering feel and response
• Recheck fluid level after test drive and top off if necessary
• Inspect ground beneath vehicle after 24 hours for any signs of fluid leakage

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