Saginaw Rotary Valve Power Steering Gears

Four factors affect power 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.

CHECKING FLUID LEVEL
1. Run engine to normal operating temperature, then shut it off. Remove reservoir filler cap and check oil level on dipstick. Level should be up to "Full" mark on dipstick.
2. If level is low, add power steering fluid to proper level on dipstick and replace filler cap. When adding less than one pint of fluid, it is permissible to use automatic transmission fluid. When adding larger quantities or when making a complete fluid change, it is recommended that special power steering fluid be used.
3. When checking fluid level after system has been serviced, air must be bled from the system as outlined under "Bleeding System."

BLEEDING SYSTEM
1. With wheels turned all the way to the left, add the recommended fluid to the "Add" mark on dipstick.
2. Start engine. While running at fast idle, recheck fluid level and, if necessary, add fluid to the "Add" mark on dipstick.
3. Bleed system by turning wheels from side to side without hitting stops. Maintain fluid level just above internal pump casting. Fluid with air in it will have a light tan appearance. This air must be eliminated from fluid before normal steering action can be obtained.
4. Return wheels to center position and continue to run engine for two or three minutes, then shut it off.
5. Road test vehicle to make sure steering functions normally and is free from noise.
6. Recheck fluid level, making sure level is at the "Full" mark.