Component Tests and General Diagnostics

Fig. 3 Power Steering Pressure Gauge Connections:

SYSTEM PRESSURE TEST
NOTE: When performing system test procedures, power steering pressures can easily exceed 1000 psi. Extreme caution must be exercised when performing these tests to prevent personal injury.

1. Disconnect pressure line from gear housing.
2. Connect pressure gauge J-5176 and gauge adapter J-35465 to power steering system as shown in Fig. 3.
3. Bleed system, then start engine and turn steering wheel from right to left stops two or three times.
4. Shut off engine and ensure fluid temperature is at least 176 ° F and that fluid reservoir is full.
5. Start engine and run at idle speed. Check fluid pressure with valve on pressure gauge closed. If pressure is below 924 psi, power steering pump is defective and must be repaired or replaced as necessary. Do not keep valve closed for more than 10 seconds. This could cause damage to power steering system.
6. Open valve on power steering gear and record pressure reading at 1000 RPM and at 3000 RPM. If there is more than 71 psi difference between 1000 and 3000 RPM checks, repair or replace steering gear valve.