power steering

[Mitch.E]

My recently bought '02 power steering is VERY firm. It's my first T-Bird so I have no yardstick. Should it be a one finger deal like my '16 SUV or is the two- hander U-turn standard for it? If it's supposed to be light would that maybe mean the FEM is malfunctioning? The fluid is clean and full...no leaks...tire pressure normal. Mitch

[Gobird]

Mine is a little firm compared to my 2014 Escape. I think if I remember it's a speed senative steering system. The faster you go the more firm it gets. But then I could be wrong, it's been a while.

[BLACK BEAUTY]

My low mileage Baby Blue 03 had very stiff steering...unlike Black Beauty....

[007Cruiser]

My 2003 steers like a dream.

[Mitch.E]

I'll explain a bit more....Backing out of the driveway onto the street at slow speed and then straightening out requires some muscle. It's not a problem for me but my wife struggles a bit. On the road the steering is fine. Again, is this considered normal? Mitch

[007Cruiser]

I would say no to that being normal.

[HKS]

I'll explain a bit more....Backing out of the driveway onto the street at slow speed and then straightening out requires some muscle. It's not a problem for me but my wife struggles a bit. On the road the steering is fine. Again, is this considered normal? Mitch

Front Electronic Module needs repair. Transistor Q35 is bad. Q35 applies PWM power to the variable assist power steering actuator.
HKS

[Rondor]

Could also be power steering pump bad. Not uncommon on Ford products;

[wcoates]

Front Electronic Module needs repair. Transistor Q35 is bad. Q35 applies PWM power to the variable assist power steering actuator.
HKS

http://www.thunderbirdnest.com/forum...e-manufactuers

We've developed the above thread for module repair. Does anyone know if anyone listed here doe the FEM module. Also, does anyone know of any other repair services that could be added to the list. It's been awhile since we've re-visited that thread.

[HKS]

http://www.thunderbirdnest.com/forum...e-manufactuers

We've developed the above thread for module repair. Does anyone know if anyone listed here doe the FEM module. Also, does anyone know of any other repair services that could be added to the list. It's been awhile since we've re-visited that thread.

Have Ford or someone use an OBDII scanner and look for code C1925. This will pont to a bad FEM module. When using the scanner, make sure you do the test that checks all modules. Don't do the short test. The module test will take 5 minutes or longer.

If you take it to the Ford dealer they will replace the power steering actuator for $500 and then tell you the FEM is no longer available. You need to have them pull the FEM and tell them where to send it for repair.

[Mitch.E]

My FEM needs to have Q35 (power steering) mosfet replaced. I'd like to do the repair myself as suggested to cut the legs on the defective mosfet and solder directly. Question is sourcing a replacement. Any suggestions?? Also need to know how to remove and replace the spring holder. I've built and repaired lots of RC equipment so I'm pretty sure I can do this. But.....should I screw it up a repair shop won't want to look at it for sure. Bad decision to do it myself??? Thanks for any help. Mitch

[HKS]

My FEM needs to have Q35 (power steering) mosfet replaced. I'd like to do the repair myself as suggested to cut the legs on the defective mosfet and solder directly. Question is sourcing a replacement. Any suggestions?? Also need to know how to remove and replace the spring holder. I've built and repaired lots of RC equipment so I'm pretty sure I can do this. But.....should I screw it up a repair shop won't want to look at it for sure. Bad decision to do it myself??? Thanks for any help. Mitch

Yes,
Do it yourself would be a last resort unless you have a spare FEM laying around, in case you screw the original one up..

I can show you a tool I made to remove the steel heat-sink fingers. You also need to have strength in your hands to use the tool.
I can give you a part number for the P Mosfet.
HKS
Here is one.
https://www.jameco.com/z/IRF9540N-Ma...20_670645.html

Tool: See post #35
http://www.thunderbirdnest.com/forum...nderbird/page3

[Mitch.E]

I appreciate your help Hermann. When the cold weather starts here in the NorthEast I'll pull the FEM out and send it to the pros. As you said...likely a 2 dollar part and the tech already knows what to do before he even cracks open the box. Thanks again, Mitch