How to Replace Power Steering Oil Cooler 02-08 Dodge Ram 1500
Difficulty: Intermediate · About 90 min · Dodge Ram
Replace the power steering cooler on a 2002–2008 Dodge Ram 1500 by identifying the pressure and return lines, capturing fluid, and bleeding the system after refilling.
Tools you will need
- 10mm socket and wrench
- Drain pan
- Funnel
- Side cutters
- Floor jack and jack stands
Parts and supplies
- Power steering cooler
- Vehicle-specified power steering fluid
Steps
Prepare the vehicle and drain fluid
Park securely and raise the front if needed, supporting it on jack stands. Place a drain pan below the cooler and note which hose is the pressure line and which is the return.
Disconnect the cooler hoses
Release the hose clamps and work each hose off the cooler fittings carefully. Keep the hose ends identified and prevent dirt from entering the steering system.
Remove the cooler
Remove the 10mm bracket nuts and lift the old cooler from its mounts. Compare the replacement with the original and transfer any required mounting hardware.
Install the new cooler
Position the replacement cooler and secure its brackets. Connect each hose to the correct fitting and tighten the clamps securely.
Refill and bleed the steering system
Refill with the fluid specified for the vehicle. Follow the manufacturer's bleeding procedure, turning the wheels slowly as directed while monitoring fluid level and avoiding holding the steering against its stops.
Inspect and test
Check the cooler and hose connections for leaks, reinstall the lower wind tray, and lower the vehicle. Test steering at low speed and recheck the fluid level and noise.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.