Component Tests and General Diagnostics
OVERVIEWThe 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 Flow/Pressure Analyzer, Special Tool 6815 along with adapters, Special Tools 8185-1 and 2, and hoses, Special Tools 6905 (in kit 6893) and 6959. See Tools and Equipment for tool appearance.
TEST PROCEDURE
CAUTION: To prevent personal injury, safety goggles should be worn at all times when performing any test procedures or work on the power steering pump or power steering gear.
1. Install Pressure Hose, Special Tool 6959 in the inlet fitting on Flow/Pressure Analyzer, Special Tool 6815. Install Pressure Hose, Special Tool 6905, in the outlet fitting on Pressure/Flow Tester, Special Tool 6815. Install Pressure Hose, Special Tool 6713-1 (in 6815 kit) on Pressure Hose, Special Tool 6905. Install Adapter Fitting, Special Tool 8185-2 on Pressure Hose, Special Tool 6959.
2. Remove power steering fluid pressure hose from steering gear
3. Install Adapter Fitting, Special Tool 8186-1 into power steering fluid pressure port on steering gear.
4. Install power steering fluid pressure hose into Adapter Fitting, Special Tool 8185-2. Install Pressure Hose, Special Tool 6713-1 on Adapter Fitting, Special Tool 8185-1.
CAUTION: Be sure that hoses for Flow/Pressure Analyzer, Special Tool 6815, do not come in contact with drive belts or pulleys when it is routed out from under the vehicle. Also, be sure hose are clear of hot components.
5. Route Flow/Pressure Analyzer, Special Tool 6815, out from under the vehicle.
6. Lower vehicle.
7. Check power steering pump drive belt tension and adjust as necessary.
8. Check that power steering fluid is at correct fill level in reservoir.
9. Completely open valve on Pressure/Flow Tester, Special Tool 6815 before starting engine.
10. Start engine and bleed all air out of power steering fluid. Refer to Power Steering Pump, Service and Repair, Service Procedures, Power Steering Pump Initial Operation for correct procedure to bleed air from power steering fluid.
11. Check fluid level in power steering pump reservoir, add fluid as necessary to obtain proper level.
12. 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 power steering pump could be damaged.
13. 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.
NOTE: Power steering pump maximum relief pressure is 8275 to 8975 kPa (1200 to 1300 psi.).
- If power steering pump pressures are above specifications but not within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other, replace pump.
- If power steering pump pressures are within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other but below specifications, replace pump.
CAUTION: Do not force the power steering pump to operate against the steering stops for more than 5 seconds at a time, power steering pump damage will result.
14. Fully open the valve on Special Tool 6815. Turn steering wheel to extreme left and right positions until against steering stops. Record the highest indicated pressure at each position. Compare readings to specifications. If highest output pressures are not the same against either stop, the steering gear is leaking internally and must be replaced.