Steering: Testing and Inspection

1. Raise and support vehicle, then remove transverse member.
2. Disconnect power steering pressure line between pump and gear, allowing fluid in line to drain.

Fig. 2 Connecting Rotunda Power Steering System Analyzer:

3. Attach Rotunda power steering system analyzer 014-00207 with adapter 014-00456, or equivalents, between pressure hose connection as shown. Torque fittings to 29-36 ft lb.
4. Place a thermometer in pump reservoir. Ensure valve on analyzer is OPEN to allow system to function normally. Do not hold steering wheel against stops for more than fifteen seconds at a time.
5. Bleed system as follows:
a. Check fluid level in reservoir, and add fluid if necessary.
b. Turn ignition switch to ON position, engine not running, then turn steering wheel fully left and right ten times.
c. Recheck fluid level, adding fluid if necessary.
d. Repeat steps b and c until fluid level stabilizes, then start engine and allow to idle.
e. Turn steering wheel fully left and right ten times, then verify that fluid is not foamy.
f. If air is still present in system, repeat steps b through e. If foam is still present after repeating steps, check system for air leaks.
g. If fluid level has decreased, add fluid and repeat step e until fluid level stabilizes.
6. Leave engine running, then if necessary, turn steering wheel fully left and right several times to raise fluid temperature to 122-140°F.
7. Close valve on analyzer briefly and increase engine speed to 1000-1500 RPM, then read pump output pressure. Pressure should be 1210-1270 psi. Valve on analyzer must be briefly closed to read operating pressures. Do not leave valve closed for longer than 15 seconds.
8. If pressure is too low, repair or replace pump. If pressure is too high, check for a crimped pipe and repair or replace as necessary, or replace pump.
9. Open valve on analyzer and increase engine speed to 1000-1500 RPM, then turn steering wheel all way to left or right and read pressure generated at steering gear. Pressure should be 1210-1270 psi.
10. If pressure is not within specifications, repair or replace steering gear.
11. Turn ignition to OFF position, then remove analyzer and adapter.
12. Reconnect high pressure hose and tighten connection to specification, then bleed system as described in step 5.