Component Tests and General Diagnostics

HYDRAULIC FLOW AND PRESSURE TEST

The following procedure is used to test the operation of the power steering system on this vehicle. This test will provide the gallons per minute (GPM) or flow rate of the power steering pump along with the maximum relief pressure. Perform this test anytime a power steering system problem is present. This test will determine if the power steering pump or power steering gear is not functioning properly. The following test is performed using the Power Steering Analyzer Kit 6815 (with appropriate hoses) and Adapters from Power Steering Analyzer Adapter Kit 6893.





1. Check power steering belt to ensure it is in good condition and adjusted properly.
2. Assemble Power Steering Analyzer as follows:
a. Gauge end (inlet) of Flow Meter And Gauge 6800 (3) - Hose 6905 (6), Hose 6713 (4), Adapter Tube 6844 (5)
b. Valve end (outlet) of Flow Meter And Gauge 6800 (3) - Hose 6959 (1), Adapter Fitting 6826 (2)
3. Unthread pressure hose tube nut at power steering pump.
4. Connect Adapter Tube 6844 to pressure fitting on power steering pump. Tighten tube nut to specifications.
5. Connect power steering pressure hose to Adapter Fitting 6826. Tighten tube nut to specifications.
6. Open Analyzer test valve completely.
7. Start engine and allow to idle long enough to circulate power steering fluid through Analyzer flow meter and hoses.
8. Shut off engine and check fluid level; add fluid as necessary. Repeat STEP 7 and STEP 8 until air is bled from system.
9. Start engine and allow to idle.
10. Check Analyzer gauge (3) pressure. Initial pressure reading should be 50-125 psi (345-862 kPa). If pressure is higher, inspect hoses for restrictions and repair as necessary.
11. Increase engine speed to 1,100 rpm (1,200 rpm for SRT8) and read Analyzer Flow Meter. The reading should be 2.2 GPM (8.2 LPM) minimum. If flow reading is below specification, replace power steering pump.

CAUTION: The following test procedure involves testing maximum pump pressure output and flow control valve operation. Do not leave valve closed for more than five seconds as the pump could be damaged.

12. Close valve fully three times and record highest pressure indicated each time. All three readings must be above specifications and within 50 psi (345 kPa) of each other.

NOTE: Power steering pump maximum relief pressure is 1640-1740 psi (11307 to 11997 kPa).

- Power steering pump pressures above specifications but not within 50 psi (345 kPa) of each other, replace pump.
- Pressures within 50 psi (345 kPa) of each other but below specifications, replace pump.

CAUTION: Do not force the pump to operate against the stops for more than 2 to 4 seconds at a time because, pump damage will result.

13. Completely open the valve on the Power Steering Analyzer. Turn the steering wheel to the extreme left until the stop in the steering gear is met, then turn the steering wheel to the right until the right stop is met. Record the highest indicated pressure at each position. Compare the recorded readings to the specifications. If the highest recorded output pressure reading against one stop is not within 50 psi (345 kPa) of the highest recorded reading at the other stop, the steering gear is leaking internally and must be replaced.