How do you bleed power steering in a 96 ford contour?

Answer 1

First of all, you don't want to try to do it by running the engine. This will cause foaming of the fluid, distributing millions of little air bubbles throughout the system! Instead, follow the following procedure:

1. Disable the ignition system. (I also like to remove the spark plugs - it helps the engine crank faster and easier.)
2. Raise the vehicle until the front tires are just off of the ground and safely support it on jack stands.
3. Fill the Power Steering pump reservoir.
4. Crank the engine for 30 seconds without turning the steering wheel and recheck the fluid level. Add fluid if needed.
5. Crank the engine for 30 seconds while turning the steering wheel lock to lock. Hold it just short of the lock stop for about 5 seconds. Check the fluid level and fill if needed. Do this three or four times, allowing the starter to cool 5 minutes or so between crank cycles. This will also allow any foaming to settle down.

   WARNING: Do not hold the steering wheel against a stop for more than 5 seconds, as damage to the steering pump could result.

6. Lower the vehicle.

7. Restore the ignition system.

   If this doesn't completely bleed the system, repeat. If you still have air in the system, you'll probably have to take it to a shop and have the system bled by the vacuum pump method