Austin Healey Sprite Power steering pressure hose replacement

Do I need to replace my Austin Healey Sprite power steering pressure hose?

The steering system in your Austin Healey Sprite is the only system able to change your vehicle’s direction. To make steering effort easier, a hydraulic system provides steering assist. This hydraulic system’s high fluid pressure flows through hoses, keeping the fluid contained inside the power steering system.

In your Austin Healey Sprite's power steering system, the power steering pump forces high-pressure fluid from the reservoir to the steering gear, or rack and pinion. The fluid provides hydraulic assist for your steering system in the rack and pinion, so long as the fluid flow is proper.

A hose carries the fluid from the reservoir to the steering gear, and that hose is known as the power steering pressure hose. It’s a synthetic rubber hose that’s been reinforced with cotton or Kevlar strands to increase its strength. A threaded connector is crimped onto each end.

The power steering pressure hose is exposed to the most pressure, causing wear and tear over time. A power steering pressure hose normally lasts at least 100,000km but premature failure can occur. Even though the power steering pressure hose is reinforced, it can still be weakened by extreme heat or cold, excess pressure, or contamination inside or on the outside of the hose.

This can contribute to fluid leaks or ruptured hoses, and the power steering system has an inadequate flow to assist steering effort. Because the power steering system is constantly engaged when the engine is running, increased engine hours can contribute to pressure hose problems. 

When a power steering pressure hose is failing you may notice your Austin Healey Sprite requires increased steering effort or it feels choppy as you turn the steering wheel, the power steering fluid reservoir is low and/or you notice a red or brown oily substance in the ground under the engine bay.

When a power steering pressure hose develops any amount of leak, it will need to be replaced. Ensure the manufacturer-specified fluid is used to bleed and top up the power steering system to prevent premature wear on internal power steering components.

Some power steering pressure hoses must be replaced as an assembly along with the return hose. It’s a good idea to have the power steering fluid changed at the same time as the power steering pressure hose replacement.

If you choose to drive your Austin Healey Sprite with a faulty power steering pressure hose, you may be at risk of losing steering control, putting you, your passengers, and bystanders in danger.

When your Austin Healey Sprite power steering hose becomes weak over time and develops leaks it will need to be replaced – when it does, steer your way to AutoGuru!