Thanks gentlemen,
I think there was some bushing that is missing, I noticed a stud on the bar, I'll fab something up. I'm not looking for perfection here :lol:
Those pictures give me nightmares :crying:, I ended up doing it twice because the replacement return fitting didn't seal into the rack. The stock one has a slightly smaller nut.
Do not use this part:
CARQUEST Power Steering 16MM Swivel O-Ring (Type III) x 3/8" Beaded Tube
Part No: 35019
Getting the rubber return hose on was a PITA too, in that cramped area. I ended up heating it with a heatgun. I ended up replumbing most of the return lines with 3/8" PS tube.
It is possible to remove the rack without taking the oil filter off, I used an 18mm stubby from HF.
Tips for future visitors:
1) the clamp for the rack is going to be impossible to remove and install unless you expand it. Insert a steel washer or plate in the slit, and twist the bolt from the threaded end until it expands a bit. I don't know how much you can go but you are going to have to spread it a bit to get it off and on. It should technically slide off, but being these cars are 21yrs old, good luck. The exhaust provides some leverage to pry things. A shop I asked about an alignment said they just gave up on some of those clamps, he asked me when can I start :lol:.
2) Disconnect the universal under the steering wheel too, be careful not to rotate things (I may have messed that up, my wheel is a bit off). The column collapses but that will make it much easier. Lock the steering wheel.
3) Removing lines is almost an act of impossibility on the floor. I suggest removing the oil filter (could be done on, I didn't want to deal with it twice). Put a 3/4" backup wrench on the 90deg pressure fitting and remove the PS line with an 18mm. The HF stubby is a good idea.
4) Cut the rubber return line flush to the metal. It is practically part of the metal after all these years, you will have slack to reinstall.
5) Using I believe a 24mm and a 21mm, remove the rack bolts.
6) This is the tricky part. You cant remove the rack with the pressure fitting elbow. Drop the rack a bit, and remove the elbow with an 18mm from under the subframe (yes, this sucks).
7) The return elbow comes out with the rack, do not replace it if its not leaking.
Install is the reverse...
If you don't buy new hoses, you have to by teflon rings and push them(or work them) onto the old fittings. Do not skip this!
The aftermarket pressure elbow fit fine.
Another thing I suggest is removing your steering tank, and cleaning it out with brake cleaner (I like the Advance Auto Black can, it leaves no residue). There is a filter on the bottom that collects gunk and makes steering harder. My 95 PS actually calls for Type F fluid, and the spec was never changed according to Ford. Don't question your woman :lol:. Got it at WM, not playing games at this point :lol:.