Steering: Service and Repair

GENERAL INFORMATION





The following procedure can be used to test the operation of the power steering system on the vehicle. This test will provide the flow rate of the power steering pump along with the maximum relief pressure. This test is to be performed any time a power steering system problem is present to determine if the power steering pump or power steering gear is not functioning properly. The following pressure and flow test is performed using Pressure/Flow Tester, Special Tool 6815, or equivalent.

POWER STEERING PUMP FLOW AND PRESSURE TEST
1. Check power steering pump drive belt tension and adjust as necessary.
2. Disconnect power steering fluid pressure hose, at power steering pump. Use a container for dripping fluid.
3. Connect Pressure Gauge, Special Tool from kit 6815 to both hoses using adapter fittings. spare pressure hose, to power steering pump pressure hose fitting.
4. Completely open valve on Special Tool 6815.
5. Start engine and let idle long enough to circulate power steering fluid through flow/pressure test and get air out of fluid. Then shut off engine.
6. Check power steering fluid level, and add fluid as necessary. Start engine again and let idle.
7. Pressure gauge should read below 862 kPa (125 psi), if above, inspect the hoses for restrictions and repair as necessary. The initial pressure reading should be in the range of 345 - 552 kPa (50 - 80 psi). The flow meter should read between 1.3 and 1.9 GPM.

CAUTION: The following test procedure involves testing power steering pump maximum pressure output and flow control valve operation. Do not leave valve closed for more than 5 seconds as the pump could be damaged.

8. Close valve fully three times and record highest pressure indicated each time. All three readings must be within specifications and within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other.

NOTE: Power steering pump maximum relief pressure is 9653 to 10342 kPa (1400 to 1500 psi.).
- If power steering pump pressures are within the specifications but not within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other, then replace power steering pump.
- If pressures are within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other but below specifications, then replace power steering pump.

CAUTION: Do not force the pump to operate against the stops for more than 5 seconds at a time because, pump damage will result.

9. Open test valve. Turn steering wheel to the extreme left and right positions until against the stops, recording the highest indicated pressure at each position. Compare pressure gauge readings to power steering pump specifications. If highest output pressures are not the same against either stop, the steering gear is leaking internally and must be replaced.