Hi, Helping change a power steering rack on a mates 1998 Fiesta 1.2 automatic, his Mum drives it as its got the auto box anyway the rack started leaking badly out of the boots and as we were pulling it out a small valve fell on the floor and we did not see where it came from, it does fit in the the ports for the hoses but no idea which port or which way around as it seems to be a one way valve or a flow reducer valve? The exchange rack does not have anything in the ports so at a loss to know where it goes, I am sure it came out of there as it was all shiny and covered in steering oil. Any info appreciated.

Vin.

https://ford.7zap.com/en/car/81/no/0/2024/17281/74944/?detail=6317116      maybe this will help 😁

Possibly a check valve to prevent fluid returning when the pump stops with engine shut-down.  Number 27 on this picture.  Can't find any available for sale now though.

Thanks that could well be it and it seems to show which way around it fits, the valve looks ok condition wise, will drive over and have a look at it and see which way and which port it fits better in.

Thanks  guys, it was exactly that a one way valve and when looking closely it could only go in one port on the rack so all fitted now and seems to be working ok. 

Looks like a front suspension strut has been leaking oil and needs changing now, I guess a low mileage 1998 car still wears out like all others.