Lincoln Town Car Power Steering Pump Guide: 1981-1990
Everything you need to know before replacing the power steering pump on your classic Town Car.
- A whining noise when turning is the most common sign of a failing power steering pump.
- You will need a special pulley puller/installer tool, as new pumps do not include the pulley.
- Bleeding air from the system after installation is critical and known to be difficult on these cars.
- For a vehicle this old, a new aftermarket pump is often a more reliable choice than a remanufactured one.
Symptoms of a Failing Power Steering Pump
When your Town Car's power steering pump starts to fail, it will give you several warning signs. Ignoring them can lead to a complete loss of power assist, making the car very difficult to steer.
- Whining or Groaning Noises: A loud whining or groaning sound, especially when you turn the steering wheel, is the most common symptom. This noise often gets louder as you turn the wheel more. It's caused by low fluid, air in the system, or internal wear.
- Stiff Steering: If the steering wheel feels heavy and hard to turn, the pump is likely not producing enough pressure. This is most noticeable at low speeds or when parking.
- Fluid Leaks: Finding reddish or brownish fluid puddles under the front of your car points to a leak. The pump itself has seals that can wear out and leak over time.
- Slow Steering Response: A delay between when you turn the wheel and when the car responds can be caused by a failing pump that isn't building pressure quickly enough.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Pump
For a vehicle from this era, finding a brand-new OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Ford or Motorcraft part is nearly impossible. The most common options are new or remanufactured aftermarket pumps.
New Aftermarket vs. Remanufactured:
- New Aftermarket: Brands like BBB Industries and Cardone offer new pumps. These are built from all-new components. While aftermarket quality can vary, a new part often provides more peace of mind than a remanufactured one, as it doesn't rely on used core components. Some forum users have expressed frustration with the quality of remanufactured parts in general, sometimes receiving defective units out of the box.
- Remanufactured: These pumps are used OEM units that have been rebuilt with new seals and tested. Cardone is a major supplier of remanufactured parts. They can be a cost-effective option, but their reliability can be inconsistent, as noted in owner forums.
For the 1981-1990 Town Car, both BBB Industries and Cardone are the primary aftermarket brands available. Given the potential for issues with remanufactured parts, opting for a new aftermarket unit from either brand is often the safer bet for long-term reliability.
Pro Tip: Plan for a Pulley Tool and Fluid Flush
Most new and remanufactured pumps for this vehicle do not come with a pulley. You will need to rent or buy a specific power steering pulley puller and installer tool to transfer the pulley from your old pump to the new one. Also, always flush the old, contaminated fluid from the system before installing the new pump to prevent immediate damage.
Known Issues and Recalls
Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database did not find any specific recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) for the power steering pump on the 1981-1990 Lincoln Town Car. While other steering and suspension recalls exist for this generation, the pump itself was not a specific point of failure identified by the manufacturer.
Installation Warning
Replacing the pump on the 5.0L V8 can be challenging due to tight access. Some mechanics find it necessary to move the A/C compressor to reach the pump's mounting bolts. Furthermore, these Ford power steering systems are known to be very difficult to bleed air from after the repair. Be prepared to spend significant time bleeding the system by turning the wheels lock-to-lock with the engine off to avoid damaging the new pump.
Replacement Cost
The cost to replace the power steering pump involves the part itself and labor. Labor costs can be significant due to the job's complexity.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Pump | $89 - $91 |
| Shop Labor | $210 - $310 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $299 - $401 |
Note: Costs are estimates and will vary based on your location and repair shop rates. This does not include the cost of new power steering fluid or potential replacement of old hoses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is my steering still stiff after replacing the pump?
If a new pump doesn't solve stiff steering, there are two likely causes. First, there may still be air trapped in the system, which requires more bleeding. Second, the U-joints in the steering shaft itself can seize up on these cars, mimicking a bad pump. Check the steering shaft for binding before assuming the new pump is faulty.
Do I have to replace the power steering hoses at the same time?
It is not required, but it is highly recommended. The rubber hoses degrade over 30+ years and can become brittle or leak. Replacing them while the system is already drained and the pump is out is much easier than doing it as a separate job later.
What kind of power steering fluid should I use in my 1981-1990 Town Car?
Always check your owner's manual for the exact specification. Most Ford vehicles of this era use a fluid that meets the Type F automatic transmission fluid specification, but always verify before adding fluid. Using the wrong type can damage seals and the new pump.
Can I rebuild my original pump?
Yes, seal and rebuild kits are available for the factory Ford pump. This can be a very cost-effective option if you are mechanically inclined and your pump's internal hard parts (vanes, housing) are not damaged. However, it requires completely disassembling the pump and is more complex than a simple replacement.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: FOVZ-3A674-BARM FOVZ-3A674-BCRM
Fits 1981-1990 Lincoln Town Car with 5.0L V8 engine. The pump is belt-driven and may or may not include a reservoir. A pulley tool is required for installation.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Lincoln Town Car: