How To Rebuild Your Power Steering Control Valve

Classic Mustangs equipped with Bendix power-assisted steering yield all kinds of challenges for enthusiasts who have to live with them. When components are fresh and everything is installed properly, Bendix power-assisted steering works quite well, and without the leaks. However, not enough of us are getting that one right when it comes to maintenance. We use lines and hoses that don’t fit. And we tend to get in a hurry and screw things up without realizing it.

Did you know you can rebuild your Mustang’s power-steering control valve yourself? All you need is a clean setting (hospital clean), a mind for detail, organization, and the right parts from CJ Pony Parts. Before disassembling the control valve, always thoroughly clean the valve in a parts washer or with brake cleaner to remove dirt and grit that can harm the valve’s precision parts. These parts are so precise that a speck of dust can cause major damage or valve malfunction.

When you disassemble the valve, always note what order the parts come out. This is an area too easily screwed up. All parts must go back in exactly the same location they came from for proper operation.

If you’re considering rebuilding the power ram (also called a power cylinder), forget it. We’ve learned from John’s Mustangs & Classics that Bendix power steering rams are not rebuildable by the enthusiast. The most you can do with the ram is replace the seals, insert, and rubber wipers. The ram piston cannot be replaced because the ram housing is welded together. CJ Pony Parts has a new power ram if seals and wipers don’t correct leakage issues.

If your control valve is corroded or damaged beyond repair, look to CJ Pony Parts for new and remanufactured power steering components to help get you back on the road in short order.