Hydraulic System Pressure & Flow Test

Connect Power Steering Analyzer (014-00207) to high pressure line between power steering pump and steering gear. See Fig 1 . Check fluid level. Run engine at idle for about 2 minutes. Record pressure and flow.

See POWER STEERING PUMP PRESSURE TEST SPECIFICATIONS TABLE and POWER STEERING PUMP FLOW TEST SPECIFICATIONS TABLE . If hydraulic pressure and/or flow are less than specifications, power steering pump may need service or replacement, but continue test procedure.

Fig 1: Connecting Power Steering System Analyzer

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

POWER STEERING PUMP PRESSURE TEST SPECIFICATIONS

POWER STEERING PUMP FLOW TEST SPECIFICATIONS

Application

Flow: Gals./Min. (L/Min.)

Minimum

1.5 (5.7)

Maximum ⁽¹⁾

2.6 (9.8)

⁽¹⁾	At 1500 RPM.

Partially close analyzer gate valve. Build pressure to 740 psi (52.0 kg/cm² ). Observe and record flow. Replace pump cam pack. Continue test.
Close and partially open valve 3 times. DO NOT allow valve to remain closed more than 5 seconds. Record maximum and minimum pressures. If pressure is less than specification, replace flow control valve. If pressure is greater than specification, clean or replace pump.
Increase engine speed to 1500 RPM. Check pump flow. If flow is greater than specification, clean or replace pump.
With engine at idle, turn steering wheel to right and left stops. Record pressure and flow at stops. DO NOT hold steering wheel at stops for longer than 5 seconds. Pressure should be near maximum specification. Flow should be less than 0.5 gal. (1.9L) per minute. If pressure does not reach maximum specification or flow does not drop below specification, steering gear has internal fluid leaks. Repair or replace steering gear.
Turn steering wheel slightly in both directions. Release wheel quickly while watching pressure gauge. Pressure should rise then snap back to idle pressure as wheel is released. If pressure drops slowly or remains high, ensure steering column is not binding. If steering column is not binding, repair or replace steering gear. Disconnect analyzer. Check fluid level.