Ever wondered if you can mount a hydroboost remote reservoir above your power steering pump fittings? You’re not alone. Many builders and off-road enthusiasts face this puzzle when designing custom setups or upgrading their brake systems, eager to ensure both performance and reliability.
Getting it right is crucial to avoid air bubbles, pressure loss, or system damage. In this article, you’ll find clear answers and essential steps, plus tips to achieve a smooth, leak-free installation.
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Understanding Hydroboost with a Remote Reservoir: Fittings Above Pump Fittings Explained
If you’re considering or planning to install a hydroboost system with a remote power steering reservoir, one question often pops up: Should the remote reservoir’s fittings be mounted above the pump’s fittings? How does the orientation impact performance, plumbing, and reliability? Let’s break this topic down, explain the essentials, guide you through the setup, and offer practical tips for success.
The Basics: What Is a Hydroboost with a Remote Reservoir?
A hydroboost brake system uses hydraulic pressure from your power steering pump to assist your brake pedal, providing excellent stopping power even when vacuum levels are low (such as in big-cam or forced induction engines). The system circulates fluid between the pump, hydroboost unit, power steering gearbox (or rack), and the fluid reservoir.
A remote reservoir is a separate tank for hydraulic fluid, connected via hoses to the pump. This is especially valuable when engine compartment space is tight or you need extra fluid capacity for high-demand applications.
Key Question: Should Remote Reservoir Fittings Sit Above Pump Fittings?
Short Answer:
Yes, the best practice is to mount the remote reservoir so its fittings are positioned above the pump’s fittings. This orientation provides several important advantages in terms of reliability, performance, and ease of service.
Why Keep Reservoir Fittings Higher?
- Gravity-Assisted Fluid Feed: When the reservoir outlet sits above the pump’s inlet, gravity ensures consistent fluid flow to the pump. This reduces the risk of starvation or air entering the system.
- Easier Bleeding: Air bubbles tend to rise. With the reservoir positioned higher, air more readily escapes the fluid, making system bleeding more effective and preventing spongy pedal feel.
- Reduces Risk of Cavitation: Cavitation (the formation of air bubbles in the pump) can damage internal components. Proper reservoir placement minimizes this risk by keeping fluid supply constant.
- Less Restriction on Hose Routing: Mounting the reservoir higher gives you more flexibility for tidy, direct hose runs, reducing potential for kinks or collapsed lines.
System Configuration: A Step-By-Step Overview
Let’s walk through how to set up a hydroboost system with a remote reservoir, focusing on the importance of fitting placement.
1. Decide on Mounting Location
- Aim High: Secure the remote reservoir so its base (where the fluid exits) is above the power steering pump’s fluid inlet.
- Accessibility: Choose a spot that is easy to reach for checking fluid level and filling.
- Stable and Secure: Make sure the bracket or mount holds the reservoir firmly—even on rough roads or track days.
2. Reservoir Fittings and Hoses
- Use Quality Hoses: Select hoses rated for hydraulic/power steering fluid. Both rubber and braided stainless lines are common for performance builds.
- Hose Sizing: Hose diameter must match the fittings on both the reservoir and the pump (typically 3/8″ or 1/2″).
- Avoid Tight Bends: Keep hoses as straight as possible. Gentle curves prevent restrictions.
- Double-Check Connections: High-pressure fittings like AN (Army-Navy) or quality hose barbs with clamps are essential for preventing leaks.
3. Plumbing Sequence: How to Route the Lines
- Reservoir to Pump: The reservoir’s primary purpose is to supply fluid to the power steering pump. This hose is not under high pressure, but still must resist collapsing.
- Pump to Hydroboost: From the power steering pump, hydraulic fluid flows to the hydroboost unit, assisted under pressure.
- Hydroboost to Steering Gear: After supplying the hydroboost, the pressurized fluid passes to your steering gearbox or rack.
- Return Lines: Both the hydroboost and the steering gear unit require return lines, which are routed back to the reservoir (some reservoirs offer multiple return ports for ease).
Quick Schematic:
- Reservoir (high)
- ↓ (Gravity feed)
- Pump
- → Hydroboost
- → Steering Gear
- ← Return lines → Reservoir (multiple ports if needed)
4. Priming and Bleeding the System
- Fill Only to the Cold Mark: Hydraulic fluid expands when hot. Only fill to the ‘cold’ mark to avoid overflows.
- Cycle the Steering: Turn the steering wheel slowly lock-to-lock several times with the engine off, then repeat with the engine on.
- Pump the Brakes: Press and release the brake pedal to help purge air from the hydroboost unit.
- Bleed and Top Up: Check for bubbles or froth, and replenish fluid if necessary.
Benefits of Proper Reservoir Placement
Taking time to correctly place and plumb your remote reservoir pays off in several ways:
- Consistent Pedal Feel: Eliminate air pockets that lead to a soft or inconsistent brake pedal.
- Longer System Life: Pumps, boosters, and steering boxes last longer when properly supplied with fluid.
- Reduced Maintenance: Fewer leaks, less foaming, and minimal need for re-bleeding.
- Upgrade Flexibility: You can easily adapt the setup for bigger brakes, faster ratio boxes, or steering coolers.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Challenge: Limited Engine Bay Space
- Tip: Use compact reservoirs and low-profile brackets. Consider creative mounting points like the inner fender or firewall.
Challenge: Hose Routing Interference
- Tip: Map your hose runs before final installation. Use insulated clamps or grommets to prevent chafing.
Challenge: Air Intrusion or Fluid Foaming
- Tip: Double-check all hose clamps and fittings. Always mount the reservoir higher than the pump for best gravity feed.
Challenge: Return Line Turbulence
- Tip: Opt for dual-return reservoirs with built-in baffles or separate return ports for the steering and hydroboost returns.
Practical Installation and Maintenance Tips
- Choose OEM-Style or Aftermarket Reservoirs: Modern aftermarket reservoirs often have features like sight glasses, multiple return ports, and sturdy mounting tabs.
- Use Hose Heat Shields if Needed: Especially near exhaust components, to prevent boiling or breakdown of fluid.
- Label Your Hoses: If you’re setting up for the first time, a little tape and a marker go a long way for future service.
- Periodically Check All Connections: Hydraulic leaks often start small. Regular checks help you catch issues early.
Cost Considerations and Shipping Advice
- Plan for Quality: Investing in a high-quality remote reservoir and proper AN fittings might seem pricey, but it pays off with less maintenance and superior reliability.
- Bundle Parts: Many vendors offer complete kits (reservoir, lines, brackets, fittings) which often save money versus buying each piece individually.
- Shipping Tips: When ordering online, consider shipping costs—heavier components like steel reservoirs and long hoses might increase rates. Bulk orders or local pick-up can save money.
- Check Compatibility: Always match your parts (such as AN fitting size, hose type, and reservoir port counts) to your specific hydroboost and steering setup to avoid costly returns.
In Practice: What Enthusiasts Are Doing
Across classic and modern vehicle builds, enthusiasts consistently report superior results by:
- Using remote reservoirs mounted near or above the master cylinder on the firewall or inner fender.
- Upgrading to braided stainless lines when running complex or high-heat routing.
- Opting for reservoirs with T-style or dual returns for cleaner installations.
- Swapping out vintage single-return setups to avoid fluid aeration and noise.
These real-world practices confirm the benefits and reliability gains of high-mounted remote reservoirs with well-chosen fittings.
Conclusion
Setting up your hydroboost system with a remote reservoir mounted above the power steering pump’s fittings is more than just a best practice—it’s fundamental to system reliability, performance, and ease of maintenance. Plan your routing with gravity in mind, select the right parts, and enjoy confident braking and steering for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I have to mount the remote reservoir above the pump, or is side-by-side okay?
It’s strongly recommended to mount the reservoir above the pump. Side-by-side mounting can lead to irregular fluid flow, air bubbles, and pump starvation, all of which can harm the system.
2. What’s the best hose type for hydroboost and remote reservoir setups?
Use high-quality, hydraulic-rated hoses. For return and supply lines with low pressure, reinforced rubber or braided stainless lines work well. For high-pressure segments (like pump to hydroboost), always use hoses rated for at least 2,000 PSI.
3. Can I simply “T” both return lines together before entering the reservoir?
You can, but a reservoir with dual returns is better. “T” fittings sometimes cause turbulence or foaming, especially if both the steering and hydroboost are returning fluid at the same time. Dual returns or baffles help keep air out.
4. How do I know if I have air in my hydroboost system?
Typical signs are a spongy or inconsistent brake pedal, whining noises from the pump, or visible air bubbles in the reservoir. Proper bleeding will quickly fix this if your reservoir is mounted high.
5. Is it worth buying a complete kit, or should I piece together my own system?
Kits are convenient, especially for ensuring all components are compatible. However, custom setups let you tailor hose lengths and reservoir types to your space constraints. Decide based on your experience and specific vehicle needs.
With attention to detail and proper component placement, you can enjoy all the benefits of a hydroboost brake system with a remote reservoir: improved safety, robust performance, and reliable street or track operation.