Power Steering System Purging

POWER STEERING SYSTEM PURGING

Caution:
^ If the air is not purged from the power steering system correctly, premature power steering pump failure can result. The condition can occur on pre-delivery vehicles with evidence of aerated fluid or on vehicles that have had steering component repairs.

Note:
^ A whine heard from the power steering pump can be caused by air in the system. The power steering purge procedure must be carried out prior to any component repair for which power steering noise complaints are accompanied by evidence of aerated fluid.

1. Remove the power steering pump reservoir cap. Check the fluid.
2. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist.
3. Tightly insert the stopper of the vacuum pump into the reservoir.
4. Start the engine.
5. Install the vacuum pump, apply vacuum, and maintain the maximum vacuum of 68-85 kPa (20-25 in-Hg).
6. If equipped with Hydro-Boost, apply the brake pedal twice.

Caution:
^ Do not hold the steering wheel against the stops for more than 3 to 5 seconds at a time. Damage to the power steering pump can occur.

7. Cycle the steering wheel fully from stop-to-stop 10 times.
8. Stop the engine.
9. Release the vacuum and remove the vacuum pump.

Caution:
^ Do not overfill the reservoir.

10. Fill the reservoir.
^ Use approved transaxle fluid.
11. Start the engine.
12. Install the vacuum pump. Apply and maintain the maximum vacuum of 68-85 kPa (20-25 in-Hg).

Caution:
^ Do not hold the steering wheel against the stops for more than 3 to 5 seconds at a time. Damage to the power steering pump can occur.

13. Cycle the steering wheel fully from stop-to-stop 10 times.
14. Stop the engine, release the vacuum and remove the vacuum pump.

Caution:
^ Do not overfill the reservoir.

15. Fill the reservoir as needed and install the reservoir cap.
16. Visually inspect the power steering system for leaks.

Caution:
^ Do not overfill the reservoir.

17. Fill the reservoir as needed and visually inspect the power steering system for leaks.
18. Install the reservoir cap.