Ford Explorer Power Steering Pump Kit For 5.0L Short Front Runner

The 1996-2001 5.0L Ford Explorer motors have become a common swap component for many vehicles, including older Ford Broncos. Although this is a great power plant, the OEM power steering pump is well known to fail prematurely and not be able to accomodate power steering systems with larger tires.

This Power Steering Pump Kit replaces the Ford steering pump with our High-Performance Saginaw CB pump that has been modified with ported housing, chromoly shaft, and full needle bearing complement. This kit comes with a CNC’d pump adaptor bracket that will bolt to the OEM bracket and accept our steering pump.

Also included is our proprietary design 3.5” x 6” reservoir with a custom side outlet. Our power steering reservoir uses a unique design to keep the fluid perfectly still. This results in zero cavitation and reduces air in the system, which keeps operating temperatures lower and results in a longer pump life. Our pressurized reservoir also keeps oil in and dirt out.

Our kit comes complete with all necessary hoses, fittings, and mounting hardware.

It is available in both Hydroboost and Non-Hydroboost configurations. The Hydroboost option adds a second return fitting to the reservoir and comes with all the additional fittings and hoses needed to power the steering system.

We do recommend adding our 6GPM in-line filter when doing the install to even better protect your system. If you are adding a filter, you can choose barbed fittings for easy installation or -6 AN if you’d like.

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FAQ

What vehicles is this kit designed for?

This kit is designed for 1996-2001 Ford Explorer 5.0L engines equipped with the factory short front runner accessory drive system. It is especially popular for Early Bronco, Ranger, and custom off-road vehicle engine swaps.

Why should I replace the factory Ford Explorer power steering pump?

The factory Explorer pump is known for premature failure and often struggles to provide adequate steering assist when larger tires, hydroboost brakes, or demanding off-road conditions are involved. This kit replaces the OEM pump with a high-performance Lee Power Steering modified Saginaw CB pump designed for greater durability and steering performance.

What pump comes with this kit?

The kit includes a Lee Power Steering High-Performance Saginaw CB pump featuring:

• Ported housing

• Chromoly shaft

• Full needle-bearing complement

• Increased durability and reliability compared to stock pumps

Does this kit include everything needed for installation?

Yes. The kit includes:

• High-performance Saginaw CB pump

• CNC-machined adapter bracket

• Remote reservoir

• Hoses and fittings

• Mounting hardware

• Components required for either Hydroboost or Non-Hydroboost applications

Is this kit available for Hydroboost brake systems?

Yes. The kit is available in both Hydroboost and Non-Hydroboost configurations. The Hydroboost version includes an additional return fitting and the necessary hoses and fittings to support both steering and brake assist systems.

Will this kit work with larger tires?

Yes. This kit was developed specifically to provide improved steering assist for vehicles running larger tires, which can overwhelm the factory Explorer power steering pump.

What makes the Lee Power Steering reservoir different?

The included reservoir features a proprietary internal design that keeps the fluid calm and controlled. This helps:

• Eliminate cavitation

• Reduce aeration (air in the fluid)

• Lower operating temperatures

• Extend pump life

• Improve steering performance

The reservoir is also pressurized to keep contaminants out and fluid contained.

Does the reservoir fit under an Early Bronco hood?

Yes. The reservoir design was developed specifically with Early Bronco engine swaps in mind and is designed to fit under the hood while maintaining proper clearance.

What power steering fluid should I use?

Lee Power Steering strongly recommends using Tom Lee's specialty-formulated Lee Power Steering Fluid. As alternatives, AC Delco or Valvoline non-synthetic power steering fluid may be used.

Do not use ATF or any synthetic power steering fluid in this system.

Should I install a power steering filter?

Yes. Lee Power Steering recommends adding their inline power steering filter during installation to help protect the pump and steering system from contamination and extend component life.

Is installation difficult?

Installation is straightforward for experienced enthusiasts and builders. Detailed installation instructions are available and include mounting procedures, hose routing, reservoir positioning, and belt recommendations.

What belt do I need?

The belt required depends on your accessory configuration:

• With A/C: 6PK2375

• Without A/C: 6PK2082

Always verify fitment during installation.;

What warranty is included?

The Ford Explorer Power Steering Pump Kit includes a 12-month limited warranty against manufacturer defects.

Can this kit be used for off-road applications?

Absolutely. This kit is commonly used in off-road builds, Broncos, trail rigs, and engine-swapped vehicles where reliable steering performance and durability are critical. The upgraded pump and reservoir design are ideal for demanding conditions.

Will this eliminate power steering pump noise?

While no steering system can compensate for installation issues or worn steering components, the Lee reservoir design significantly reduces common causes of pump noise such as aeration and cavitation.

Why is this kit more expensive than a replacement stock pump?

This is a complete performance upgrade rather than a replacement pump. It includes a premium modified Saginaw pump, engineered mounting system, specialized reservoir, hoses, fittings, and hardware designed to provide substantially better reliability and steering performance than the factory setup.