Steering: Testing and Inspection

Use extreme caution when performing this test procedure. The systems to be tested operate at or above 1000 psi. Only use the test equipment that is suggested by the manufacturer.
Do not hold the steering wheel against the stopper for more than five seconds at a time. Doing so will result in very high fluid temperatures and inaccurate liquid pressure measurements.
1. With the engine Off, disconnect the pressure hose at the steering gear or power steering pump, then install Power Steering Tester tool No. J-29877-A and Adapter tool No. J-33996 to both hoses. The gauge must be between the shutoff valve and pump.
2. Open the shutoff valve, then remove the filler cap from the pump reservoir. Fill the reservoir with power steering fluid to the ``Full'' mark on the dipstick.
3. Start the engine, then momentarily hold the steering wheel against the stop check the connections at the tester for leaks.
4. Bleed the system of trapped air, then recheck fluid level.
5. Allow engine to reach normal operating temperature, then raise engine speed to approximately 1500 RPM.
6. Do Not leave shutoff valve fully closed for more than five (5) seconds, as the pump could become damaged internally. Fully close the shutoff valve. Record the highest pressures.
7. If the pressure recorded is within 1210-1280 psi for 2.6L/4-155 engines, 1085-1210 psi for 2.8L/V6-173 engines or 1350-1420 for 3.2L/V6-193 engines the pump is functioning within its specifications.
8. If the pressure recorded is higher than 1280 psi for 2.6L/4-155 engines, 1210 psi for 2.8L/V6-173 engines or 1420 psi for 3.2L/V6-193 engines the valve in the pump is defective.
9. If the pressure recorded is lower than 1210 psi for 2.6L/4-155 engines, 1085 psi for 2.8L/V6-173 engines or 1350 psi for 3.2L/V6-193 engines the valve or the rotating group in the pump is defective.
10. If the pump checks within specifications, leave the valve open and turn (or have someone else turn) the steering wheel fully in both directions. Record the highest pressures and compare with the maximum pump pressure recorded in Step 8. If the pressure cannot be built in either (or one) side of the gear, the gear is leaking internally and must be disassembled and repaired.
11. Shut the engine Off, remove the test gauge, reconnect the pressure hose, check the fluid level and make the needed repairs.
12. If the problem still exists, the steering and front suspension should be inspected.