[V8] Changing out Power Steering Hose

[Jeremy Ward]

<snip>
The manual says to use a really long extension and extend all the way out
through the wheel well. You may find this easier if you have the front right
wheel off.
- using a long extension and socket (either 17mm or 19mm - can't remember),
remove the banjo bolts for the lines. You may as well fix them both. The
extension has to be long enough so the ratchet is located over by the right
ignition coil.
<snip>


Yeah that's what the manual says alright...  I should have sent them the
repair bills on my friggin elbow when it finally 'broke loose' and my elbow
hit something very hard.  This was when I was doing the rack R&R and I was
afraid to go to the doctor because if I was put into a cast, there was no
way I was getting the V8 road worthy anytime soon ;-)


I actually replaced that PS hose several years ago Bob and I used a slightly
different method then (should have used it again this year...)

Here is my 2003 repost:
I did this a while back and it was a PITA.  Now having done it before, I
think I could do it muck quicker / easier.  Access and room to maneuver was
the key.  I removed the distributor cap, the coil, and a whole host of other
things to 'make room'.  After that it was trying a bunch of different tools
to get that bugger off of there.  It is a 19mm.  The key to my victory was a
fine toothed, flex-head ratchet.
http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?BV_UseBVCookie=Yes&vertical=TOOL&f
romAuto=YES&bidsite=CRAFT&pid=00942794000 (or similar)

The only reason I needed the flex head was to get the socket over the bolt
head.  Once in place, the head was in a normal 90deg with the handle.

The fine tooth is a must in this tight spot.

Things that might also work are flexible sockets:
http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?BV_UseBVCookie=Yes&vertical=TOOL&f
romAuto=YES&bidsite=CRAFT&pid=00943211000 
long extensions, universal joints for your extensions, 19mm crow foot, etc.

Treat each part under the hood carefully as if they cost $50 each (most of
them do).

Most important thing is patience.

Good luck,

- Jeremy
BTW, I've also picked up a set of these beauties which have been a lifesaver
in certain applications:
http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?BV_UseBVCookie=Yes&vertical=TOOL&p
id=00942430000&subcat=Wrenches - Costco sells a set or ratcheting wrenches
(but no 17mm!!!) for ~$20