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Pressure Test

  1. Disconnect high pressure line from power steering pump. Connect Power Steering Pressure Tester Kit (J-5176-D), or Power Steering Analyzer (J-25323) with Adapter (J-28579), between high pressure line and power steering pump using spare high pressure hose. Completely open tester valve.
  2. 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 (5.6-8.8kg/cm2 ). If pressure exceeds about 200 psi (14.1 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.
  3. If pressure is less than about 80-125 psi (5.6-8.8 kg/cm2 ), close valve fully for less than 5 seconds and then open it. Repeat process 2 times, noting highest pressure displayed each time valve is closed. If readings 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).
  4. If readings 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).
  5. If readings are within 50 psi (3.5 kg/cm2 ) of each other but are not within specification, replace flow control valve and retest system. If readings are still low, check pump rotor and vanes for wear. Replace complete pump assembly if worn.
  6. 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, no problem exists. Go to next step.
  7. Turn engine off. Remove tester. Reconnect high pressure hose to pump. Check fluid level. Bleed hydraulic system. Refer to HYDRAULIC SYSTEM BLEEDING  under LUBRICATION.
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