Steering Hoses and Hydraulic Fittings Guide

Steering Hoses and Hydraulic Fittings

A power steering system depends on more than the steering box or power steering pump. The hoses, fittings and adapters connecting those components must also be properly matched to the system. Classic Performance Products offers power steering hoses, power steering hose kits, hydraulic fittings and adapters for classic cars and trucks, including components for steering gear boxes, rack-and-pinion systems, traditional GM-style pumps and custom power steering installations. Options include application-specific and universal hose kits, rubber and stainless hose assemblies, AN fittings, inverted-flare adapters, O-ring fittings and other hydraulic connections used when upgrading or modifying a power steering system. Whether you are replacing aging steering lines, installing a CPP power steering conversion, adapting a different power steering pump or completing a custom steering system, CPP can help you find the hoses and fittings needed to complete the hydraulic side of the installation.

POWER STEERING HOSES ARE A CRITICAL PART OF THE SYSTEM

A hydraulic power steering system relies on fluid moving between the power steering pump and the steering gear box or rack-and-pinion assembly. The pressure and return sides of the system perform different jobs and require the correct hose, fittings and routing for the application. CPP offers both complete hose kits and individual fittings so builders can choose between an application-specific solution and a more customized installation.

A properly configured steering hose system can help provide:

Reliable hydraulic fluid delivery
Proper connection between the pump and steering gear or rack
Clean routing around the engine, exhaust and suspension
Compatibility between different fitting styles
Easier installation of steering conversions
A cleaner finished appearance
Reduced opportunities for leaks caused by incorrectly matched components

CPP Steering Hose Kits

Complete power steering hose kits are a convenient solution when the power steering pump, steering gear or rack combination is already known. CPP offers hose kits for a variety of steering systems, including kits designed around CPP steering boxes and classic GM applications, as well as universal configurations for custom builds. Certain CPP hose kits are also configurable for later GM and LS-style power steering pump applications.

Depending on the application, a hose kit may include:

High-pressure steering hose
Low-pressure or return hose
Pump-side fittings
Steering-box or rack fittings
AN adapters
Flare adapters
Installation hardware or related fittings

Rubber Power Steering Hose Kits

Traditional rubber power steering hose kits provide an OE-style appearance that works especially well for restorations, street-driven classics and installations where a conventional black hose is preferred. CPP offers configurable rubber hose kits for applications including CPP 500 Series and compatible 605-style steering boxes. Some kits can also be shortened or configured to accommodate the routing requirements of the vehicle.

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Stainless and Braided Power Steering Hose Kits

Stainless and braided hose assemblies can provide a more performance-oriented appearance while offering additional routing options for custom engine compartments. CPP's steering hose category includes stainless hose kits for several steering-system combinations, including gear-box, rack-and-pinion and pump configurations. The best hose style depends on the steering components being used, desired appearance and available routing space.

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CPP Steering Fittings

AN Power Steering Fittings

AN-style plumbing is commonly used when building a custom power steering system or adapting components that were not originally designed to work together. CPP offers a range of AN fittings and adapters that can help connect steering pumps, steering boxes, racks, reservoirs and hoses.

CPP offers adapters for converting certain GM steering-box connections to -6AN, including fittings for both inverted-flare and O-ring-style ports.

INVERTED FLARE VS. O-RING POWER STEERING FITTINGS

One of the most important steps when choosing steering hoses is identifying the fitting style used by the steering box, rack and power steering pump. Classic power steering systems may use inverted-flare connections, while other steering components may use metric O-ring connections or AN-style fittings. CPP therefore offers adapters that allow different connection styles to be incorporated into compatible steering systems.

Do not select a hose based only on thread diameter. The thread size, fitting style and sealing method must all be compatible with the component being connected.

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How to Choose the Right Power Steering Hoses and Fittings

Selection Step	What to Check
1. Identify the Steering Gear or Rack	Determine exactly which steering box or rack-and-pinion assembly is installed. Examples may include: CPP 400 Series steering box CPP 500 Series steering box 605-style steering box Toyota-style steering gear Mustang II rack-and-pinion Aftermarket rack-and-pinion system Original power steering gear Different steering units can use different port sizes and sealing methods.
2. Identify the Power Steering Pump	Determine which power steering pump is being used. Pump configurations may include: Early GM power steering pumps Later GM pumps LS engine accessory-drive pumps Ford pumps Remote-reservoir pumps Aftermarket performance pumps CPP offers hose configurations for multiple pump and steering-system combinations.
3. Determine the Fitting Type	Verify the type of connection used at each component. Common fitting types include: Inverted flare O-ring AN NPT Push-on hose Application-specific fittings Never assume two fittings are compatible simply because their threads appear similar.
4. Determine Hose Length and Routing	Check the complete path from the power steering pump to the steering box or rack and back through the return side of the system. Check clearance around: Headers and exhaust components Engine accessories Pulleys and belts Steering shafts Suspension components Frame rails Crossmembers Avoid routing hoses where they may rub against sharp edges or contact hot or moving components.
5. Choose the Hose Style	Select the hose construction and appearance that best fits the project. Rubber hoses: A good choice for restorations, traditional builds and OE-style engine compartments. Stainless or braided hoses: A good choice for custom builds, restomods and performance-oriented applications. AN-style plumbing: Useful for custom installations where additional routing and fitting flexibility is required.


Power Steering Hose Installation Overview
1	Prepare the Vehicle Safely support the vehicle and prepare the steering system for installation.
2	Identify the Connections Identify the pressure and return connections on the power steering pump, steering box or rack-and-pinion assembly.
3	Install Required Adapters Install the correct adapters into the steering box, rack or power steering pump as required by the application.
4	Measure Hose Routing Determine the required hose length and routing between the steering components.
5	Configure the Hoses Cut or configure the hoses when the specific CPP hose kit is designed to allow custom sizing.
6	Position the Fittings Position fittings to provide the correct hose orientation and avoid unnecessary twisting or sharp bends.
7	Check Hose Clearance Keep hoses away from exhaust components, belts, pulleys and other hot or moving parts.
8	Connect the Hoses Connect the pressure and return hoses to the appropriate steering-system components.
9	Fill the System Fill the steering system with the power steering fluid recommended for the specific application.
10	Bleed the System Properly bleed air from the hydraulic system according to the steering component manufacturer's instructions.
11	Inspect for Leaks Carefully inspect all hoses, fittings and connections for fluid leaks.
12	Perform a Final Clearance Check Turn the steering through its operating range and verify that the hoses do not stretch, twist, pinch or contact other components.
Power Steering Hose Installation Tips
Tip	Identify every port and fitting before assembling the system.
Tip	Do not mix the pressure and return hoses.
Tip	Use hose specifically rated for its intended power steering system application.
Tip	Keep hoses away from exhaust headers and other high-temperature components.
Tip	Avoid sharp bends that could restrict hydraulic fluid flow.
Tip	Leave enough hose length to accommodate normal engine and chassis movement.
Tip	Prevent hoses from rubbing against frame rails, suspension components or sharp edges.
Tip	Verify that steering movement does not pull, twist or pinch the hoses.
Tip	Do not assume fittings with similar thread sizes use the same sealing method.
Tip	Inspect all connections carefully after the system has been filled and bled.
Tip	Remote-Reservoir Systems: Position the reservoir higher than and relatively close to the power steering pump to help maintain proper fluid supply.
When Should Power Steering Hoses Be Replaced?
Inspect	Power steering hoses should be inspected whenever the steering system is being serviced, repaired or upgraded.
Replace	Consider replacing the hoses if you notice: Cracked or hardened rubber Fluid seepage or leaks Damaged fittings Abrasion or chafing Hose swelling Loose connections Incorrect hose routing
Upgrade	New or different hoses and fittings may also be required when: Changing the steering box or power steering pump Converting from manual to power steering Installing a different engine Changing the engine accessory-drive system Installing a new rack-and-pinion system

Important: Exact installation procedures vary by vehicle, hose kit and steering system. CPP provides technical information covering measurement, cutting and fitting orientation for certain universal and application-specific power steering hose kits. Always follow the instructions supplied with the specific CPP product and steering-system components being installed.

What hoses are needed for power steering?

A typical hydraulic power steering system uses a high-pressure line between the power steering pump and steering gear or rack, along with a return-side hose that carries fluid back through the system. The exact hose and fitting requirements depend on the pump, steering gear or rack and vehicle configuration.

Are all power steering hose fittings the same?

No. Power steering systems can use several fitting styles, including inverted-flare, O-ring, AN and other hydraulic connections. Always verify the port size and sealing style before ordering a hose or adapter. CPP carries adapters for several common steering-system configurations.

Can I use AN fittings on a power steering system?

AN fittings can be used on appropriately configured power steering systems when the hose, adapters and components are compatible with the application. CPP offers -6AN adapters for several steering-box connection styles.

Does CPP sell universal power steering hose kits?

Yes. CPP offers universal power steering hose solutions in addition to application-specific configurations. For example, CPP's T400-HK is designed for CPP 400 Series and Toyota-style power steering gear applications and includes hoses and fittings for completing the hydraulic connections.

Can power steering hoses be shortened?

Some CPP hose kits are designed to be configurable or cut to fit, while others use predetermined hose lengths. Check the specifications and instructions for the individual part number before modifying a hose.

How do I know which power steering fittings I need?

Start by identifying the exact power steering pump and steering gear or rack. Then determine the port size, thread and sealing style at each connection. Once those are known, the correct hose or adapter combination can be selected.

Can I use CPP hoses with an LS engine swap?

CPP offers certain hose configurations designed to accommodate later GM or LS-style power steering pumps. Compatibility also depends on the steering box or rack being used, so both ends of the hydraulic system should be verified before ordering.

Should I replace my steering hoses when installing a new steering box?

It is a good opportunity to inspect them. If existing hoses are deteriorated, damaged or incompatible with the new box's fitting configuration, replacement can help ensure the new steering system is connected correctly.

When you are building, restoring, or upgrading a classic car or truck, choosing the right parts can make all the difference. From brakes and suspension to steering, fuel systems, and specialty tools, every project has its own goals, challenges, and fitment needs. That is where CPP Tech Support comes in.

Before you order, CPP’s experienced tech team can help you choose the right kits, components, and tools for your specific project. Whether you are upgrading to disc brakes, improving steering response, dialing in suspension, converting to power steering, or replacing worn-out components, CPP can help guide you toward the correct parts for your vehicle.

Not sure which components fits your project?

Need help choosing a booster, master cylinder, proportioning valve, steering box, control arms, coilovers, or install tools? CPP Tech Support can help take the guesswork out of the process. The goal is simple: help you get the parts that fit, work together, and match the way you want to build and drive your vehicle.

CPP can also help customers choose the right tools to complete the job.

From brake line flaring tools and bleeder kits to suspension, steering, fabrication, and measuring tools, the right equipment can make your installation cleaner, easier, and more accurate. Whether you are working in a home garage or a professional shop, CPP can help point you toward the tools that make sense for your project.

CPP support does not stop after the sale.

Once your parts arrive, CPP’s tech team is also available to help with installation questions. If you need help understanding how a kit goes together, how components are designed to fit, or what steps to follow during installation, CPP can help you work through the process. From brake conversions and steering upgrades to suspension installs and setup questions, CPP’s after-sale tech support is there to help customers install CPP products with more confidence.

CPP’s Success Center gives customers a place to connect with the tech team by phone or email for support and product guidance. Every classic build is different, but you do not have to figure it out alone.

For help with your next project, visit the CPP Success Center, or contact CPP Tech Support, and make sure your ride is CPP equipped.