Start-Up Procedure After Pump or Gear Service

Upon initial engine start-up after a power steering pump or gear overhaul (particularly the pump), there is very frequently much noise and aeration. This is due to air trapped in the overhauled unit which mixes with the surging fluid and causes aeration. The problem can be minimized if the following procedure is used.
1. Disconnect ignition control module (ICM) connector to prevent engine from starting.
2. Fill the power steering oil reservoir.
3. Crank the engine with the starter motor and continue adding fluid until the level remains constant. Be careful to avoid prolonged cranking as the battery may be drained and the starter motor damaged.
4. Rotate the steering wheel approximately 30 degrees each side of center while continuing to crank the engine.
5. Recheck the fluid level and fill as required.
6. Reconnect the ICM connector.
7. To clear diagnostic trouble codes, disconnect battery for one minute and then reconnect battery.
8. Start the engine and allow it to run for several minutes. Rotate the steering wheel from stop to stop.

NOTE: When the battery has been disconnected and reconnected, some abnormal drive symptoms may occur while the powertrain control module (PCM) relearns its adaptive strategy. The vehicle may need to be driven 16 km (10 mi) or more to relearn the strategy.

9. Shut off the engine and recheck the fluid level. Add as required.