Power Steering Pressure Switch Removal

[grummph]

Hello, fellow Ranger enthusiasts.. I have an '87 Ranger with 2.3L engine which is leaking power steering fluid out of the pressure switch. I am trying to get the switch out so I can replace it. But when I turn the switch, it simply slips on its housing and does not unscrew from the pressure line. If I really crunch down with the switch housing with my vice grips, am I going to mess up something? I took a look at a new high pressure line at the parts store, and it has a threaded fitting for a pressure switch. So, there must be some way to get the old switch off. BTW it is my understanding that the purpose of that switch is to disconnect the AC unit when turning the steering wheel. Well, my truck doesn't have AC and there isn't anything plugged into that switch. Has anyone ever stuck a pipe plug into that threaded fitting (if I ever get the switch out, that is)? No sense putting an expensive, unused switch back into the pipe!

 

[MAKG]

If you buy another pressure line, it will have a pipe plug in there.

Given the PITA you're dealing with, I'll suggest that would be a $40 well spent.

 

[grummph]

Thanks, got a new pressure hose, and your are correct, the plug and "O" rings come with it. And it only cost $25 in Southern Oregon.

 

[AllanD]

The P/S pressure switch isn't to switch off the A/C when
the steering wheel is turned, it's purpose is to prevent the
engine idle from dropping when the steering is turned...
the 2.3 can actually be stalled if the wheel is turned abrubtly
when the engine is at idle.



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