Gates 352708 Power Steering Return Line Hose Assembly - Gear To Cooler

Gates Return Line Assembly for Ford and Lincoln

The Gates 352708 power steering return line hose assembly is built for vehicles that route fluid from the steering gear to the cooler. With a 52-inch length, a male captive O-ring end, and a 3/8-inch hose end, it matches the connection style used on select Ford Thunderbird and Lincoln LS applications.

This Return Line Assembly product line from Gates focuses on direct-fit steering hose routing for specific vehicle platforms. The Gates 352708 is a practical OE-style replacement for power steering return line service where the original hose has aged, leaked, or lost sealing integrity.

Key Features

• Power steering return line hose assembly for steering gear-to-cooler routing
• 52-inch overall length for the specified application
• End 1: male captive O-ring, 11 mm diameter
• End 2: 0.375-inch I.D. hose connection
• Direct-fit replacement for select Ford Thunderbird and Lincoln LS models
• Cross-references Bosch 40524 for the same application

Detailed Description

Gates 352708 is a power steering return line hose assembly engineered for the return side of the steering system, where fluid travels from the gear to the cooler. It is listed for 2003-2006 Lincoln LS, gear to cooler, and 2003-2005 Ford Thunderbird, gear to cooler. For 2002 Ford Thunderbird, gear to cooler, the listing also notes a radiator coolant hose with quick connect fitting and return line assembly application. If you are searching for a Ford Thunderbird power steering return hose or a Lincoln LS steering return line hose assembly, this part number is the cataloged match.

Use Gates 352708 when replacing a worn return hose that shows seepage at the fitting, softening along the hose body, or deterioration at the O-ring connection. The part number 352708 is also referenced in interchange listings for related aftermarket and OE cross-reference numbers, which helps when verifying the correct steering hose before ordering.

What It Helps Address

• Power steering fluid leaks at the return line connection
• Cracked or hardened hose material from age and heat
• Loose or damaged sealing at the male captive O-ring end
• Restricted steering fluid return flow caused by hose wear
• Noise or steering performance issues related to low fluid level from leakage

Installation Notes and Tips

Confirm the vehicle year, make, model, and steering routing before installation. This assembly is listed for gear-to-cooler applications, so match the hose path and end connections to the original part. Inspect the mating surfaces, O-ring sealing area, and hose routing for wear or contamination before installing the new hose. The part number 352708 should be verified against the existing hose configuration on the vehicle.

Quality Assurance

Gates is a recognized supplier of automotive fluid transfer components, and the Return Line Assembly line is cataloged for application-specific steering hose replacement. This part cross-references Bosch 40524 for the same application.