Component Tests and General Diagnostics

^ Tools Required:
- J 5176-D Power Steering Gage
- J 5421-02 Thermometer

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
^ Pump reservoir for proper fluid level.
^ Pump belt for proper tension.
^ Pump drive pulley condition.

Important
^ All tests are made with the engine idling at normal operating temperature.

1. Place a container under the steering gear or pump to catch the fluid when disconnecting or connecting the hoses.
2. With the ignition "OFF," disconnect the pressure hose at the steering gear or power steering pump and install J 5176-D to both hoses. The gage must be between the shutoff valve and pump. Open the shutoff valve.
3. 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 steering wheel against the stop, check the connections at J 5176-D for leaks.
4. Bleed the system.
5. Insert thermometer J 5421-02 in the reservoir filler opening. Move the steering wheel from stop to stop several times until the thermometer indicates the power steering fluid in the reservoir has reached a temperature of 65° to 77°C (150° to 170°F).

Important
^ To prevent scrubbing 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.

6. Start the engine and check the pump's fluid level. Add power steering fluid if required. When the engine is at normal operating temperature, the initial pressure reading on the gage (valve open) should be in the 550-860 kPa (80-125 psi) range. Should this pressure be in excess of 1380 kPa (200 psi), check the hoses for restrictions and the poppet valve for proper assembly.

Notice:
^ Do not leave valve fully closed for more than 5 seconds, since this could damage the pump Internally.

7. Fully close the gate valve three times. Record the highest pressures attained each time.
- If the pressures recorded are within 9,308-9,998 kPa (1,350-1,450 psi) and the range of readings within 345 kPa (50 psi), the pump is functioning within its specifications.
- If the pressures recorded are high, but do not repeat within 345 kPa (50 psi), the flow controlling valve is sticking. Remove the valve, clean it and remove any burrs using crocus cloth or a fine hone. If the system contains some dirt flush it. If it is exceptionally dirty, both the pump and gear must be completely disassembled, cleaned, flushed, and reassembled before further usage.
- If the pressures recorded are constant but between 690 kPa (100 psi) and 9,308 kPa (1,350 psi), replace the flow control valve and recheck. If the pressures are still low, replace the rotating group in the pump.

8. If the pump pressures are within specifications, leave the valve open and turn the steering wheel to both stops. Record the highest pressures and compare with the maximum pump pressure recorded. If this pressure cannot be reached in at least one side of the gear, the gear is leaking internally and must be disassembled and repaired.
9. Shut the engine "OFF," remove the testing gage, reconnect the pressure hose, check the fluid level and/or make the needed repairs.
10. If the problem still exists, the steering and front suspension must be thoroughly examined.