Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

System Bleeding


Four factors affect operation of the steering system: fluid level and condition, drive belt tension, pump pressure and steering gear adjustment. These should always be checked before any major service operations are performed.
Conditions such as, hard or loose steering, road shock or vibrations are not always due to steering gear or pump, but are often related instead to such factors as low tire pressure and front end alignment. These factors should be checked and corrected before any adjustment of the steering gear is made.
If fluid level is low, add power steering fluid to proper level on dipstick and replace filler cap.

1. Fill pump fluid reservoir to proper level and let fluid settle for at least two minutes.
2. Start and run engine for a few seconds. Do not turn steering wheel.
3. Turn engine Off. Check fluid level, add fluid if necessary.
4. Repeat above procedure until fluid level remains constant after running engine.
5. Raise front end of vehicle so wheels are off ground.
6. Start engine. Slowly turn steering wheel in both directions, lightly contacting wheel stops.
7. Add power steering fluid, if necessary.
8. Lower vehicle and turn steering wheel slowly from lock to lock.
9. Stop engine. Check fluid level and refill as required.
10. If fluid is extremely foamy, allow vehicle to stand a few minutes and repeat above procedure.