Pressure Test
- Disconnect high pressure line from power steering pump. Attach a spare pressure hose to pump. Connect Power Steering Pressure Tester (J-5176-D) to spare hose. Completely open tester valve.
- Run engine until fluid reaches operating temperature. Stop engine. Check fluid level. Add fluid if necessary. Start engine. With valve open and engine idling, pressure should be about 80-125 psi (5.6-8.8 kg/cm2
). If pressure exceeds about 150 psi (10.5 kg/cm2
), stop engine and check for restrictions in hoses.CAUTION: To prevent pump damage, DO NOT hold gauge valve closed for more than 5 seconds.
- If pressure is less than about 80-125 psi (5.6-8.8 kg/cm2 ), close valve fully for a few seconds, and then open it. Do this 3 times, noting highest pressure displayed each time valve is closed. If pressures are about 1000-1250 psi (70.3-87.8 kg/cm2 ) or greater, and are within 50 psi (3.5 kg/cm2 ) of each other, go to step 6).
- If pressures are as specified but are not within 50 psi (3.5 kg/cm2 ) of each other, flow control valve is sticking. Remove valve but do not disassemble it. Clean valve using crocus cloth or fine hone. Flush system if dirty. Install valve. Recheck pressure. If pressure is as specified, go to step 6).
- If pressures are within 50 psi (3.5 kg/cm2 ) of each other but are not within specification, replace flow control valve and retest system. If pressures are still low, check rotor and vanes. Replace if worn.
- With valve open, turn steering wheel from stop to stop. Record highest pressure with wheels at both stops. If highest pressure is not equal to highest pressure recorded in step 3), rack and pinion assembly is leaking internally. Repair or replace assembly. If pressures are equal, go to next step.
- Turn engine off. Remove tester and spare hose. Reconnect pressure hose. Check fluid level. Bleed hydraulic system. See HYDRAULIC SYSTEM BLEEDING under LUBRICATION.