Diagnosis By Symptom

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STEERING DIAGNOSIS CHARTS

NOTE: There are three diagnosis charts following that cover the topics Power Steering Noise, Steering Wheel Feel, and Power Steering Fluid.

POWER STEERING NOISE








* NOTE: There is some noise in all power steering systems. One of the most common is a hissing sound evident when turning the steering wheel when at a standstill or when parking and the steering wheel is at the end of its travel. Hiss is a very high frequency noise similar to that experienced while slowly closing a water tap. The noise is present in every valve and results when high velocity fluid passes valve orifice edges. There is no relationship between this noise and the performance of the steering system.

** NOTE: Power steering pump growl results from the development of high pressure fluid flow. Normally this noise level should not be high enough to be objectionable.

STEERING WHEEL FEEL














* NOTE: Steering shudder can be expected in new vehicles and vehicles with recent steering system repairs. Shudder should dissipate after the vehicle has been driven several weeks.

** NOTE: To evaluate this condition, it may be necessary to disconnect the coupling at the base of the steering column. Turn the steering wheel and feel or listen for internal rubbing in steering column. To avoid damaging the column clock spring, note the following. Before disconnecting coupling, place tires in the straight-ahead position and center steering wheel. Once disconnected, DO NOT rotate steering wheel more than one revolution in either direction and place steering wheel in original location before reconnecting coupling. If this position is lost, the steering column clock spring must be re-centered following the procedure found within the procedure for steering column installation.

POWER STEERING FLUID





* NOTE: Aerated fluid will appear with bubbles or foam, somewhat like champagne, when viewed through the reservoir fill opening.

** NOTE: Extremely cold temperatures may cause power steering fluid aeration, if the power steering fluid is low.