LEMON Manuals: Even more car manuals for everyone: 1960-2025
Home >> Ford >> 1987 >> Escort GT >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Steering >> Power Steering >> Power Steering General Servicing >> Pressure Testing
April 5, 2026: LEMON Manuals is launched! Read the announcement.

Pressure Testing

NOTE: Before testing power steering system, check fluid level, belt tension, pump pulley, tire pressure and engine idle speed. Rotunda Analyzer (014-00207) is recommended for all pump flow and pressure related testing. Check entire system for damage. Check pulley size and pump model for proper application.
  1. Reservoir must be kept full and at normal operating temperature during testing. Attach tester between pressure line and pump with gauge between pump and tester valve. Start engine and let idle for 2 minutes.
  2. With engine idling and fluid hot, record pressure (with tester valve open) and flow. If flow is below minimum listed in chart, pump may require service. However, proceed with testing at this point.
  3. If pressure is more than 150 psi (10.5 kg/cm2 ), check hoses for restrictions. Partially close tester valve to build up 740 psi (52 kg/cm2 ) and record flow. If flow is below minimum, pump cam pack requires replacement. Proceed with testing.
  4. Completely close and partially open tester valve 3 times, do not allow tester valve to remain closed for more than 5 seconds. Observe and record pressure each time valve is closed. If readings vary more than 50 psi (3.5 kg/cm2 ), flow control valve may be sticking.
  5. If pressure is less than minimum specification, replace flow control valve. If pressure is more than maximum specification, remove flow control valve and clean or replace as necessary.
  6. Increase engine speed to about 1500 RPM to observe and record flow. If flow exceeds maximum free flow listed in chart, remove flow control valve and clean or replace as necessary.
  7. Return engine to idle speed. Turn wheel from stop to stop. Observe and record flow at both stops. Pressure readings should be near maximum pressure specification listed in chart.
  8. Flow should drop below .5 Gallons Per Minute (GPM). If pressure does not reach maximum or if flow does not drop below .5 GPM, excessive internal leakage of steering gear is occurring.
  9. With engine running, attach pull scale to rim of steering wheel. Measure pull required to turn wheel 1 complete revolution in each direction. Pull should be 9 lbs. (2.25 kg) during turning.
scientia non olet · About LEMON Manuals