Flushing the Power Steering System

1. Raise and support the front of the vehicle off the ground until the front wheels are free to turn. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.





2. Disconnect the power steering gear outlet hose (5) from the reservoir.
3. Position the power steering gear outlet hose toward a drain pan or suitable container to catch the draining fluid.
4. Drain power steering fluid.

Notice: When adding fluid or making a complete fluid change, always use the proper power steering fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid will cause hose and seal damage and fluid leaks.

5. Fill power steering reservoir with new Dexron (R)-III Automatic Transmission Fluid, GM P/N 12346143, or equivalent. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.
6. START and run the engine at 1,000 RPM. After one or two seconds, power steering fluid will begin to discharge from the power steering gear outlet hose. Turn the engine OFF immediately.
7. Ensure that some fluid remains in the power steering reservoir.
8. Connect the power steering gear outlet hose to the reservoir.
9. START the engine.

Notice: Do not hold the steering wheel against the stops while flushing the power steering system. Holding the steering wheel against the wheel stops will cause high system pressure, overheating, and damage to the power steering pump and/or gear.

10. Turn the steering wheel from stop to stop.
11. Maintain the power steering fluid level with the engine idling.
12. Turn the engine OFF.
13. Bleed the power steering system. Refer to Bleeding Power Steering System.
14. Lower the vehicle.