Steering: Testing and Inspection

Hydraulic Fluid Level, Checking; Steering System, Bleeding and Checking For Leaks
Hydraulic fluid level, checking
- With engine switched off, bring front wheels to straight-ahead position.





- Remove cap.
- Wipe dipstick using clean cloth.
- Re-install cap hand tight and remove again.

Note: The cap must be screwed on fully to obtain an accurate fluid level reading.

Checking with fluid cold





- Fluid level must be in area of "MIN." marking (up to 2 mm (0.08 inch) above or below marking)

Checking with fluid at operating temperature
- Operating temperature: above approx. 50° C (122° F)
- Fluid level must be between "MIN." and "MAX." markings

Notes:
- If there is too much fluid in the reservoir, fluid must be extracted.
- If there is not enough fluid, it is not sufficient to just top off the fluid; the hydraulic system must also be checked for leaks.
- Do not re-use hydraulic fluid that has been removed.

Steering system, bleeding
- Check hydraulic fluid level and top off if necessary.
- Raise vehicle until front wheels can move freely.
- With engine switched off, turn steering wheel from lock-to-lock 10 times.
- Check hydraulic fluid level and top off if necessary.
- Lower vehicle.
- Start engine.
- Turn steering wheel from lock-to-lock 10 times.
- Check hydraulic fluid level and top off if necessary.
Any remaining air in steering system will dissipate while driving over the next 10 - 20 km (612 miles).

Steering system, checking for leaks
- Start engine.
- Turn steering from lock-to-lock and hold briefly.
This produces maximum possible pressure

CAUTION: To avoid damaging the pump, do not allow the engine to run for more than 10 seconds (with steering at lock) when carrying out this test.

In this position the components must be checked for leaks:
- Pinion seal on steering gear valve housing
- All line connections
- Rack seals
- Check rack seals with boots pushed back:
- Open boot clamp.
- Push boot back.
- Steering gear must be replaced if fluid is visible in steering gear housing and/or in boot