Steering: Service and Repair

GENERAL INFORMATION
The following procedure is to be used to test the operation of the power steering system on this vehicle. This test will provide the flow rate of the power steering pump along with the maximum relief pressure. This test is to be performed any time a power steering system problem is present to determine if the power steering pump or power steering gear is not functioning properly. The following pressure and flow test is performed using Pressure/Flow Tester, Special Tool 6815, or equivalent. The following procedure can be used to test the operation of the power steering system on the vehicle.

FLOW AND PRESSURE TEST
1. Check belt tension and adjust as necessary.
2. Disconnect the high pressure power steering hose at the power steering pump.
3. Connect Pressure Gauge/Flow Meter Special Tool 6815, or equivalent to the pressure fitting on the power steering pump and the power steering pressure hose, using the adapter fittings supplied with special tool 6815, or equivalent.
4. Open the test valve completely.
5. Start engine and let idle.
6. Check fluid level, add fluid as necessary.
7. Gauge should read below 862 kPa (125 psi), if above, inspect the hoses for restrictions and repair as necessary. The initial pressure should be in the range of 345 - 552 kPa (50 - 80 psi).

CAUTION: The following test procedure involves testing maximum pump pressure output and flow control valve operation. Do not leave valve closed for more than five seconds as the pump could be damaged.

8. Close valve fully three times and record highest pressure indicated each time. All three readings must be above specifications and within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other.
- Power steering pump pressures above specifications but not within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other, replace pump.
- Pressures within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other but below specifications, replace pump.

NOTE: Power steering pump maximum relief pressure is 8275 to 8975 kPa (1200 to 1300 psi.).

CAUTION: Do not force the pump to operate against the stops for more than 2 to 4 seconds at a time because, pump damage will result.

9. Open the valve on the power steering pump flow pressure tester. Turn the steering wheel to the extreme left and right positions until it is against the stops in the steering gear. Record the highest indicated pressure at each position. Compare the recorded readings to the specifications. If the highest output pressures are not the same against either stop, the steering gear is leaking internally and must be replaced.