Power Steering Flow And Pressure

POWER STEERING FLOW AND PRESSURE

Special Tools:

The following procedure is used to test the operation of the power steering system on the 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 test any time 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 pressure and flow test is performed using Power Steering Kit and Power Steering Kit.

GAS ENGINE TOOL CONNECTIONS

1. Connect Hose Assembly (1) to the valve side of Power Steering Analyzer (3), and connect Adapter (2) to the hose assembly.
2. Connect Power Steering Hose (6) to the gauge side of Power Steering Analyzer (3), and connect P/S Adapter (5) to the hose assembly.
3. Disconnect the P/S pump pressure line at the hydro-boost connection.
4. Connect the hose from the valve side of the Power Steering Analyzer (3) to the hydro-boost line.
5. Connect the hose from the gauge side of the Power Steering Analyzer (3) to the P/S pump pressure line at the hydro-boost connection.
6. Proceed with the Flow and Pressure Test below.

TEST PROCEDURE

NOTE: Check the power steering belt to make sure that it is in good condition and properly adjusted.

NOTE: If fluid leaked from the steering system, it should be filled to correct level prior to starting the engine.

1. Open the test valve completely.
2. Start engine and let idle long enough to circulate power steering fluid through flow/pressure test gauge and to get air out of the fluid. Then shut off engine.
3. Check fluid level, add fluid as necessary. Start engine again and let idle.
4. Gauge should read below 2068 kPa (300 psi), If above specification, inspect the hoses for restrictions and repair as necessary.
5. Increase the engine speed to 1500 RPM and read the flow meter. If the flow rate (GPM) is below specification, (refer to Pump Specification chart for GPM) the pump should be replaced.

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

6. Close valve fully three times and record highest pressure indicated each time. All three readings must be above specifications and within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other.
- If the pressures are above specifications but not within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other, replace the pump.
- If the pressures are within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other but below specifications, replace the pump.

CAUTION: Do not force the pump to operate against the stops for more than 2 to 3 seconds at a time because, pump damage will result.

7. Open the test valve and turn the steering wheel to the extreme left AND right positions three times against the stops. Record the highest pressure reading at each position. If pressures readings are not within 50 psi of each other, the gear is leaking internally and must be replaced.
PUMP SPECIFICATION