Power Steering Fluid: Testing and Inspection

POWER STEERING FLUID LEVEL INSPECTION





Pull the oil-level gauge from the reservoir filler tube and check the fluid level. The level should be between "H" and "L".

FLUID LEAKAGE INSPECTION





CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel to the extreme left or right for more than 5 seconds with the engine running. This could damage the power steering oil pump.

Start the engine and let it idle. Turn the steering wheel fully left and fully right to apply fluid pressure. Inspect the points shown in the illustration for fluid leakage.

POWER STEERING FLUID PRESSURE INSPECTION





1. Assemble the Special Service Tools (SSTs) as shown in the illustration.

Tightening torque 40 - 49 Nm (29 - 36 ft. lbs.).

2. Mark both hose connections to ensure that the pipe is reinstalled in its original position.





3. Disconnect the pressure pipe from the oil pump, and attach the SSTs.
4. Bleed the air from the system.
5. Open the gauge valve fully. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel fully left and right to raise the fluid temperature to 50° - 60°C (122° - 140°F).

CAUTION: Do not let the valve stay closed for more than 5 seconds. The increase in fluid temperature will damage the oil pump.





6. Close the gauge valve completely. Increase the engine speed to 1,000-1,500 rpm and measure the fluid pressure generated by the oil pump. If the pressure is below the specification, replace the oil pump assembly.

Oil pump fluid pressure: 7,601 - 8,335 kPa (1,103 - 1,208 psi).

CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel to the extreme left or right for more than 5 seconds with the engine running. This could damage the power steering pump.

7. Open the gauge valve fully again and increase the engine speed to 1,000-1,500 rpm.





8. Turn the steering wheel fully to the left and right and measure the fluid pressure generated by the gear housing. If the pressure is below the specification, replace the gear housing assembly.

Gear housing fluid pressure: 7,601 - 8,335 kPa (1,103 - 1,208 psi).

9. Remove the gauge set. Install and tighten the high pressure hose to the specified torque.

Tightening torque: 32 - 47 Nm (24 - 34 ft. lbs.).

10. Bleed the air from the system.