Steering: Service and Repair

The following procedure should be performed with power steering fluid at normal operating temperatures.
1. Ensure fluid level and drive belt tension are correct, disconnect high pressure hose at gear or pump.
2. Connect pressure/flow gauge tool No. 6815, or equivalent, to both hoses using adapter fittings as necessary.
3. Fully open test valve, then start and idle engine.
4. Gauge should read below 125 psi, if above 125 psi, check hoses for restrictions.
5. Initial pressure and flow rate should be within specifications. Refer to "Power Steering Pressure Specifications" and "Power Steering Flow Rate Specifications."
6. Close gauge valve completely three times and record highest pressure attained each time. All three readings must be above specifications and within 50 psi of each other. Do not leave valve closed for more than five seconds, pump could be damaged.
7. If recorded pressures are within specifications, pump is operating properly.
8. If recorded pressures are high, but do not repeat within 50 psi, replace pump.
9. If recorded pressure are constant, but less than minimum specification, replace pump.
10. If pump is within specifications, leave gauge valve open and turn steering wheel from stop to stop with engine idling. Record highest pressures and flow rates attained at each wheel stop and compare with maximum pump pressure recorded previously and "Power Steering Flow Rate Specifications." If this pressure cannot be obtained in either side of gear and are not equal, inspect for internal gear leakage.
11. Shut engine Off, perform repairs if necessary.
12. After repairs repeat test, if system meets specifications remove test equipment and reconnect pressure hose.