Component Tests and General Diagnostics

Power Steering Pressure Tester:

^ Tools Required:
- J 5176-E Power Steering Pressure Tester
- J 23640 Thermometer
- Or Equivalents

TEST PROCEDURE
The power steering system test is a method used to identify and isolate hydraulic circuit difficulties. Prior to performing this test the following inspection and necessary corrections must be made.

Inspect

NOTE:
- Pump reservoir for proper fluid level.
- Pump drive pulley condition.

1. Shut the engine off.
2. Place a container under the power steering system to catch the fluid when disconnecting or connecting the hoses.
3. Disconnect the EVO actuator electrical connector.
4. Disconnect the pressure hose at the power steering pump and the hydraulic booster. Install J 5176-E between the pump and the booster. The gage must be between the shutoff valve and the pump. Open the shutoff valve.
5. Remove the filler cap from the pump reservoir and check the fluid level. Fill the pump reservoir with power steering fluid to the full mark on the dipstick. Start the engine and, momentarily holding the steering wheel against the stop, check the connections at J 5176-E for leaks.
6. Bleed the system. Service and Repair
7. Insert thermometer J 23640 in the reservoir filler opening. Move the steering wheel from stop to stop several times until the thermometer indicates that the hydraulic fluid in the reservoir has reached a temperature of 65°C to 77°C (150°F to 170°F).

NOTE: To prevent wearing flat spots on the tires, do not turn the steering wheel more than five times without rolling the vehicle to change the tire-to-floor contact area.

8. Check the pump fluid level. Add power steering fluid, if required.
9. Start the engine and allow it to reach normal operating temperature. The initial pressure reading on the gage (valve open) should not exceed 1034 kPa (150 psi). Pressure readings in excess of 1034 kPa (150 psi) indicate a restriction in the system. If you encounter readings this high, immediately turn the engine off and locate and repair the restriction.

CAUTION: Do not leave valve fully closed for more than 5 seconds. This could damaged the pump internally.

10. Open and close the gage valve fully 3 times. Record the highest pressures attained each time.
a. If the 3 pressures recorded are within 9308-9998 kPa (1350-1450 psi) and within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other, the system is functioning normally.
b. If the pressures recorded are within specification, but not within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each - other, perform the following procedure.
- Remove and clean the power steering pump flow control valve. Remove any burrs using crocus cloth or a fine hone. Flush the system if it is contaminated. If it is exceptionally dirty, both the pump and gear must be completely disassembled, cleaned, flushed, and reassembled before further use. The reservoir must also be flushed completelv before any further use.
c. If the 3 pressure readings are not within specifications, but are within 345 kPa. (50 psi) of each other perform the following procedure.
- Replace the flow control valve and recheck. If the system fails the test a second time, replace the rotating group and retest the system.
11. Turn the engine off, remove the testing gage, reconnect the pressure hose, bleed the system, check the fluid level and/or make the needed repairs.
12. If the problem still exists, the steering and front suspension must be thoroughly examined.