P/S - Pump Noise and Increased Steering Effort
89buick02Bulletin: 88-3-8B
Date: Feb., '89
Ref. No.: 88-080B-3
Corp. Ref. No.: 803201
Revises 8838A 08/01/88
SUBJECT: POWER STEERING PUMP NOISE AND INCREASED STEERING EFFORT DURING LONG TURNS OR AGGRESSIVE MANEUVERS
MODELS AFFECTED: 1986-88 ELECTRA/PARK AVENUE, LESABRE AND RIVIERAS WITH 3.8L (VINS B,3,C)
NOTICE: This bulletin is being revised to correct the part number for the Flow Control Valve, new Part Number 7841851.
Some customers may comment about the level of power steering system noise, increased steering effort during long duration turns and/or aggressive driving maneuvers or both conditions.
In cases where customers have comments about power steering system noise, even after bleeding the power steering system (see New Bleed procedure below), the power steering noise condition can be corrected by installing a new reservoir, Part Number 26009846, available thru GMSPO. This new reservoir has increased baffling and is approximately 6 mm taller, and will prevent fluid aeration due to sloshing.
The steering effort condition can be corrected by installing a new flow control valve, Part Number 7841851, (See Figure 1).
On a customer's first report of power steering noise, the steering system should be bled, using the following NEW procedure:
1. With the engine off and front wheels off of the ground and turned all the way to the left, add power steering fluid to "Full Cold" mark on the fluid level indicator.
2. Bleed the system by turning the wheels from side to side without hitting stops. It may require turning the wheel several times. Keep the fluid level at the "Full Cold" mark. Fluid with air in it has a tan appearance. This air must be eliminated before normal steering action can be obtained.
3. Start the engine. With the engine idling, recheck the fluid level. If necessary, add fluid to bring the level to the "Full Cold" mark.
4. Return the wheels to the center position. Lower front wheels to ground. Continue running the engine for two or three minutes.
5. Road test the car to be sure the steering functions normally and is free from noise. Inspect for fluid leakage at connection points along the power steering system.
6. Recheck the fluid level. Make sure the fluid level is at the "Hot" mark after the system has stabilized at its operating temperature.
NOTICE: When adding fluid or making a complete fluid change, always use GM Part Number 1050017, or equivalent, power steering fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid will cause hose and seal damage and fluid leaks.
All parts are currently available from GMSPO.
Use applicable labor operations and times.