Questions about the OE Power Steering pressure line:

1. What is function the item in the red circle at the top?It looks like it's only function is to keep the line from rattling/chafing against the motor there, but that seems like a complex and expensive crimp job just to protect that part of the tube.

2. Why is the line so long? Why does it need that big arch up and down? The red line shows the actual path from PS pump to steering rack, and it looks like hose would fit there. Why not make it much shorter with a bit of rubber strain relief to allow for engine and rack movement?

 

Yes to the purpose of the rubber collar, at least that is the only logical reason. And I think it has to do with the answer to the second question, which I believe has to do with angles and how tight it is at the point where it supplies the fluid. Critical to the position -- can't gain proper angle if you don't loop over the wheel well and down. That's my theory.

 

The crimp does more than provide place for the rubber protector to sit. It's main purpose is as a 'restrictor' for the PS fluid flow. Need someone better versed in fluid dynamics than me but I understand this prevents turbulence and associated noises in the PS lines.