Oil Pressure Check Procedure

OIL PRESSURE CHECK PROCEDURE FOR POWER STEERING PUMP

FAILURE TO CHECK THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM FOR LOW OIL PRESSURE WILL VOID YOUR WARRANTY

If low pressure is suspected as the cause of steering concern, perform the Oil Pressure Check. Before replacing parts, it is necessary to determine if the trouble with the steering system lies with the Power Steering Pump or with the Rack and Pinion Gear Housing.

1) Disconnect the pump pressure line form the steering rack control valve housing.

2) Connect the gauge side of the pressure tester to the line.

3) Connect the valve side of the tester to the rack control valve.

4) MAKE SURE THE TESTER VALVE IS OPEN.

5) Bleed the system (refer to repair manual).

6) check for proper fluid level

7) Start engine and run at idle speed.




8) Turn lock to lock several times to boost fluid temp. to 80°C (l76°F).

9) Briefly (max of 10 seconds) close test valve and record pressure.




Compare "valve closed" readings with specs (repair manual); if readings are low then the power steering pump should be replaced.

10) With the valve open, record pressure readings with steering wheel at full lock.




Compare the "full lock" reading to specs If the reading is low the steering gear valve has an internal leak and the rack should be replaced.

11) With the valve open, check and record the pressure reading at 1000 rpm and then again at 3000 rpm.




If pressure difference between the readings at 1000 and 3000 rpm exceeds the max pressure listed in the repair manual then the power steering pump needs to be replaced or repaired.