On my 1997 Mercury Sable wagon the power steering is intermittent. The power steering works fine until the engine warms up. The pump is working (fluid is visibly moving through tank) at all times, the belt is not slipping. Is anyone familiar with anyplace on the Internet where I can find some assistance information/asistance with this? A local mechanic wanted to replace rack, hoses and pump but had no idea what was causing the problem.

www.blueovalnews.com
The earlier Ford power steering systems are really junky, and comeback repairs are common, due to people(including mechanics!) not using OEM Ford parts. If you say fluid is moving in the tank, the spool valves in the rack are shot. The mechanic is just replacing everything else as insurance against a comeback. The newer Ford systems are much better, since they are using ZUA components, and ZUA is a joint venture between ZF and Hitachi Unisia, formed to supply Nissan USA with PS parts. Now Ford is buying ZUA parts.

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1984 380SL-driving and service privileges.

Thanks. I looked at the Blue Oval site on your recommendation. Have yet to find the exact info. on power steering issues, but will have more time for that later in the weekend. Do you know if the spool valves can be switched out for new valves or does the whole rack have to be replaced?