A 7.3 PowerStroke power steering pump upgrade is necessary if you have been driving your vehicle under extreme conditions for a long period of time.
A power steering pump drives the hydraulic fluid, allowing the driver to maneuver the steering wheel.
Ford’s line of heavy-duty pickup trucks is equipped with the PowerStroke engine.
Prone to extreme driving conditions day in and day out, their 7.3 PowerStroke power steering pump can experience issues that stall the driver’s control over the steering wheel.
Contents
Power Steering Pump
| Image | Brand | Model No | Dimensions | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
  | A1 Cardone | 20-6240 | 9.88 x 6.5 x 8.38 inches | 7.03 pounds | |
  | Motorcraft | STP56RM | 11 x 8 x 6 inches | 7 pounds | |
  | A1 Cardone | 20-7238 | 9.88 x 6.5 x 8.38 inches | 6.78 pounds | |
  | A-Premium | APPSP0289 | 13.5 x 8.78 x 5.31 inches | 5.83 pounds | |
  | A1 Cardone | 20-7241 | 9.88 x 6.5 x 8.38 inches | 7.03 pounds |
When Should You Replace Your Power Steering Pump?
A power steering pump will audibly let the car owner or driver know that it is having issues. You do not even have to explicitly pop the hood open.
These signs signal you to replace the 7.3 Power Stroke power steering pump soon:
- Steering wheel is locked in place while the car is parked
- Whining, groaning noises during startup and in turns
- Wheels are not responding immediately to the steering wheel’s direction
- Fluid leaking from under the hood
Cost of 7.3 PowerStroke Power Steering Pump Replacement
An aftermarket power steering pump’s price ranges from $40 to over $100.
While you can still use your stock pulley, a replacement pulley will cost around $20 to $200.
Material costs for a power steering pump replacement range can reach a total of around $300. Labor costs must also be considered.
A power steering pump replacement takes 2-4 hours and the average labor costs start at $190.
This wholly depends on your location, vehicle, and availability of the mechanic.
Time it Takes to Perform 7.3 PowerStroke Power Steering Pump Replacement
On average, it takes a mechanic 2 to 4 hours to perform a power steering pump replacement.
Mechanics are more meticulous with their methods and may perform more routine checks to ensure the power steering pump, along with other car parts, is working properly after the installation.
It can take longer if you choose to do the power steering replacement by yourself.
Depending on your dexterity with tools, it can take you more than 4 hours to install and test out a brand new 7.3 PowerStroke power steering pump.
Tools
Using the right tools and equipment to perform a 7.3 PowerStroke power steering pump replacement is important.
You will also need rags to wipe any steering fluid that drips on other car parts, and a drain pan to catch the dripping steering fluid.
Before proceeding with the process, wear protective eyewear and gloves.
This should prevent you from serious injury or direct contact with potent automotive fluid.
- Breaker bar
- Ratchet wrenches
- Bucket or drain pan
- Old rags
- Pulley removal tool
- Pulley installation tool
- Replacement 7.3 power steering pump
- Replacement power steering pulley (optional)
- Replacement power steering fluid reservoir (optional)
- Replacement automotive belt (optional)
Step By Step Guide For 7.3 Powerstroke Power Steering Pump Upgrade
Before performing a 7.3 power steering pump replacement, you have to know first where the power steering pump is located.
The power steering pump’s position differs for every vehicle.
Some have the steering fluid reservoir integrated with the pump, while other models have the reservoir tucked in a corner.
Generally, the power steering pump sits in front of the engine and other accessories under the hood.
The power steering pump and pulley is also attached onto a bracket for Ford pickup trucks with a 7.3 engine.
Noting these details down before wrenching out car parts will be helpful in preparing you for the procedure.
, car owners will drive their car to the mechanic for a 7.3 power steering pump replacement.
However, for you who prefers to do things DIY, we have a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you perform a 7.3 power steering pump replacement by yourself.
STEP 1: Release The Tension off The Belt
The belt drives your car’s power steering pump, along with the rest of the car’s function.
To replace your power steering pump, you must remove the belt first. With a breaker bar, pull on the tensioner upwards.
This should take the tension off the belt, loosening it from the pulley. Unhook the belt.
STEP 2: Unhook The Alternator
The alternator sits atop the mounting bracket which holds the power steering pump and pulley.
There are 3 half-inch bolts keeping the alternator in place.
Unscrew the bolts and lift off the alternator, keeping it away from the bracket and the rest of the power steering pump.
Be careful not to snag on or unhook any of the wires connected to the alternator.
STEP 3. Remove The Lines Connecting to The Power Steering Pump
You should have a good view of the mounting bracket, the large pulley, and the power steering pump.
The reservoir could also be sitting atop the pump. Before unhooking the bracket, take out the lines connected with the power steering pump.
Be warned that steering fluid will drain out as you disconnect the lines.
Avoid the mess by readying a drain pan or bucket under your vehicle to catch the fluid. Unclasp the hose clamp from the pump.
Step 4. Dismount The Power Steering Pump
The mounting bracket holds together the large pulley and power steering pump. Some prefer to remove the pulley first.
However, we do not suggest this method because it is time-consuming.
For more efficiency, it is better to unhook the entire mounting bracket while the pulley and power steering pump are intact.
There are typically three bolts keeping the mounting bracket in place; two are in direct view, while the last one is hidden underneath. Take your time in unscrewing the bolts.
STEP 5. Unhook Some More Lines
Some lines run under the power steering pump, so be careful when dismounting the bracket. Disconnect the lines with a wrench.
STEP 6. Drain The Fluid
Fluid will drip from the power steering pump and disconnected lines. Let the fluid drain for a few minutes before proceeding to the next step.
STEP 7. Remove The Pulley
Transfer the mounting bracket to a flat workspace. At this point, you are ready to replace the old power steering pump.
Firstly, remove the pulley from the bracket with a specially-designed tool called pulley removal tool.
Attach the locking nut onto the pulley. Insert the pulley removal tool, twisting it until it is snugly in place.
You will need two wrenches, working and wrenching against each other’s direction.
This can take some time, stopping only when the pulley is loose enough to remove.
STEP 8. Remove The Power Steering Pump
With the pulley detached, you now have direct access to the power steering pump.
Unscrew the three bolts attaching the pump to the bracket.
STEP 9. Replace With a Brand New Power Steering Pump
Putting in position the new power steering pump, attach it to the bracket with the bolts.
Make sure to screw the bolts in tightly to avoid issues caused by a loosened bolt.
STEP 10. Reinstall The Pulley
Reinstall the pulley using a pulley installation tool.
This tool works similarly with the pulley removal tool, except it keeps the pulley in place.
STEP 11. Reinstall The Bracket and The Disconnected Lines
With the brand new power steering pump installed, you are ready to pop the mounting bracket back into its place under the hood.
Reattach all disconnected lines, and bolt the bracket into place.
STEP 12. Reinstall The Alternator and Serpentine Belt
Bolt the alternator back to its original place on the bracket.
Run the belt back on to the pulley, tightening it as needed.
How To Choose The Ideal Power Steering Pump
Not all power steering pumps are made equal.
Differences in build, reservoir integration, and mere engine compatibility can make or break the deal in purchasing a replacement.
To help you decide which remanufactured power steering pump suits your engine, we listed down a few factors for you to consider:
01. Budget
How much are you willing to spend for a power steering pump replacement?
If you will be doing the replacement on your own, were you able to save money from labor costs?
A powerstroke power steering pump upgrade does not have to be expensive.
The price tag on the products do not determine their quality, after all.
However, having a flexible budget can broaden your choices for more durable products.
02. Integral Reservoir
One of the first questions a sales clerk or shopping website will ask you is whether the steering fluid reservoir for your power steering pump is integral to the pump, or remotely mounted.
Consider the location of your vehicle’s steering fluid reservoir.
For Ford pickup trucks such as the F-350, the steering fluid reservoir is integral to the power steering pump.
03. Steering Fluid Compatibility
The type of steering fluid you use will depend on your vehicle’s system and requirements.
However, it is good to consider which steering fluid is compatible with which power steering pump.
There are various steering fluid types available on the market.
These include automatic transmission fluid (ATF), synthetic power steering fluid, and mineral power steering fluid.
Take note of their differences so as not to ruin your brand new power steering pump with the incompatible fluid.
04. Engine Compatibility
This goes without saying, but the power steering pump replacement you are deciding to purchase must be compatible with your vehicle’s engine.
Does your engine run on diesel, or gas? Is it inline, or a v-engine layout? How many cylinders power your vehicle’s engine?
These matter for the smooth running of your power steering pump replacement.
For example, Ford F-250 and F-350 pickup trucks are some vehicles that run a 7.3 or PowerStroke engine.
Thus, these car models will need power steering pumps that are compatible with the 7.3 engine.
05. Durability
One of the reasons you are purchasing a power steering pump replacement is because the old power steering pump installed in your car broke down.
Rust, leaks, and loud squealing noises are signs of an eroding power steering pump.
Consider the quality of materials used for the product. Is it sturdy?
Is it friendly to the environment? How did it fare during performance tests?
A good power steering pump replacement should be long-lasting and at the same or better quality of stock models.
06. Warranty
Not all manufacturers would disclose warranty, but as a buyer, you have the right to request for warranty guidelines.
Before making a purchase, check the warranty of the power steering pump.
This will save you the hassle of returning the product or filing for a refund when issues arise during installation, or the performance does not meet your expectations.
5 Best 7.3 Powerstroke Power Steering Pump
There are countless power steering pumps to choose from.
Below we list down the 5 best 7.3 PowerStroke Power Steering Pumps for a DIY replacement.
01. Cardone 20-6240 Power Steering Pump
Highlighted Features
- With integral steering fluid reservoir
- Remanufactured from OE car part
- Premium-grade seals for leak prevention and corrosion
The Cardone 20-6240 power steering pump works smoothly to resolve the issues of the old power steering pump.
Remanufactured from stock models, this unit fits perfectly in your car.
This power steering pump runs smoothly with your car’s stock pulley and tensioner belt, generating enough power to maneuver your steering wheel and promising you a smooth steering experience for easy drives and parking.
Pros
- Materials are safe for the environment
- Exceptional quality for its price
- Does not require brand new pulley and belt
Con
- Makes groaning sounds when freshly installed
- Opaque reservoir makes checking steering fluid difficult
02. Motorcraft Power Steering Pump
Highlighted Features
- Packaged with steering fluid reservoir
- Straightforward performance
The Motorcraft power steering pump features a remanufactured OEM build.
This ensures that the product makes for a perfect fit under the hood, especially for Ford pickup trucks.
Easy to install and straight to the point, this power steering pump is perfect for car owners who want to do a quick and hassle-free power steering pump replacement.
Buyers are left satisfied after resolving groaning and leaking issues from their previous power steering pump.
Pros
- Functions immediately with minimal adjustments
- Compatible with different pickup truck models
Cons
- Expensive
- Bad after-sales service support
03. Cardone 20-7238 Power Steering Pump
Highlighted Features
- Adaptable fit and functionality
- Economical and environment-friendly parts
- Engineered for long-lasting performance and value
The Cardone 20-7238 power steering pump features premium performance at an affordable price.
This power steering pump works just fine with a stock pulley, reducing replacement costs.
On top of it all, this power steering pump fits a variety of vehicles.
Modeled after stock power steering pumps, this unit is designed to last longer and perform better, reducing car owners’ carbon footprint.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Comes with a steering fluid reservoir integral to the pump
- Reduces whining and squealing sounds when steering
Cons
- Requires meticulous attention during installation
- Some boxes lack HNBR seals
04. A-Premium Power Steering Pump
Highlighted Features
- Premium cast iron build
- Straightforward installation
- Quick resolution for steering issues
The A-Premium power steering pump is a powerful replacement compatible with the 7.3 or V8 engine.
Sporting the same size and dimensions as a stock power steering pump, this unit has no problem attaching to other stock car parts.
The A-Premium supports a reservoir remotely installed rather than integrated. It drives fluid smoothly, troubleshooting driver’s steering power issues.
It is compatible with the 2008, 2009, and 2010 generations of Ford F-250, Ford F-350, Ford F-450, and Ford F-550 pickup trucks.
Pros
- Coated with antioxidant for rust prevention
- Easy to install
- Affordable
Con
- HNBR seals are weak and prone to breaking
05. Cardone 20-7241 Power Steering Pump
Highlighted Features
- Built to innovate OE performance
- Computer-tested durability and precision
- Produced using minimal energy
Similar to other Cardone steering pumps, the Cardone 20-7241 power steering pump gets the job done.
No more straining for your steering wheel, as this unit features precise measurement of data needed for the appropriate fluid flow and pressure.
The installation comes fast and easy with the Cardone 20-7241.
The same dimensions with a stock steering pump allow car owners to work with a familiar weight, easily attaching it to the stock pulley.
Pros
- Simple configuration with OE pulley
- Smooth, quiet performance
- Fits perfectly in Ford F and E pickup truck series
Cons
- Runs noisily when steering fluid not flushed
- Occasionally locks in place
The Common FAQs
Who Manufactures 7.3 Engines?
Ford manufactures and installs 7.3 engines into their line of heavy-duty pickup trucks.
These include the F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, and F-650.
Why is My Power Steering Pump Leaking?
The power steering pump is most likely leaking because of worn down seals.
Replace the power steering pump with a brand new unit and durable seal protection.
What Will Happen If I Don’t Replace My Bad Power Steering Pump?
Turning the steering wheel will progressively become harder.
Your vehicle will also generate loud, whirring noises because the power steering pump is overexerting effort.
When Do I Have to Replace The Power Steering Fluid?
After a power steering pump replacement, you will have to flush the entire system and replenish it with fresh power steering fluid.
Always check that the level of power steering fluid is enough to ensure optimal performance of the power steering pump.
Where Can I Buy an OE Power Steering Pump?
OE power steering pumps are available at your car’s manufacturer. However, these are costly.
You can choose to perform a replacement with a study aftermarket power steering pump.
These products are typically remanufactured stock units, with enhanced durability and performance.
Final Thoughts
A 7.3 PowerStroke power steering pump upgrade is necessary whenever you experience steering trouble or hear groaning noises coming from under the hood.
An upgrade ensures that your car is not overexerting effort, and you experience a smoother driving performance.
A power steering pump replacement is a long, but fairly easy process to follow.
With the right set of tools, enough time, and our comprehensive guide, you too can replace your car’s power steering pump.