Steering: Testing and Inspection

^ Tool Required:
- J 5176-D Power Steering Pressure Tester
- Or Equivalent

^ Tool Available:
- J 25323-B Power Steering System Analyzer
- Or Equivalent

The power steering system may be tested by using one of two tools. Essential tool J 5176-D measures pressure only and is connected to the power steering pressure gage via a spare pressure hose connected to the pump. Available tool J 35323-B, Power Steering Analyzer, measures both flow and pressure and is connected to the pressure line at the pump. Both pressure and flow ratings are included in this procedure for when using J 25323-B.

1. Disconnect high pressure line at pump. Use a small container to catch any fluid which might leak.
2. Connect either J 5176-D or J25323-B to the system.
^ J 5176-D requires that a spare pressure hose be connected to the pump.
^ J 25323-B is connected to the power steering pressure line at the power steering pump.
3. Leave vehicle in Park or Neutral.
4. Open valve on gage.
5. Start the engine. Allow the system to reach operating temperature, then check the fluid level and add fluid if required.
6. Note the power steering pressure at engine idle. If J 34323-B is used, the power steering flow rate can be measured.

Important:
^ Do not move the steering wheel while the engine is running. Doing so will give inaccurate readings.
^ The pressure reading should be less than 1034 kPa (150 psi). If the pressure is above 1034 kPa (150 psi), stop the engine and check the hoses for restrictions.

7. Fully close the valve three times. (DO NOT leave the valve fully closed for more than 5 seconds, as pump damage could occur.) Record pressure, and flow readings if J 25323-B is used, each time the valve is closed.
^ Each pressure reading should show at least 6895 kPa (1000 psi). The three readings should be within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other.
^ If pressure readings are high enough, and are within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each otter, the pump is functioning properly.
^ If the pressure readings, are high enough, but not within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other, the flow control valve in the pump is sticking. Remove and clean the valve using crocus cloth or a fine hone. Flush any dirt contained in the system.
^ If the pressure readings are less than 6895 kPa (1000 psi), replace the flow control valve and recheck the system. If readings are still low, replace the rotor and vanes.
8. If the pump checks okay, leave the valve open and turn the steering wheel to both stops. Record the highest pressure, and flow readings using tool J 25323-B (if used), and compare with the highest pump pressure (and flow) reading recorded. If pressure (and flow) at both stops is not the same as the maximum pressure, the steering gear is leaking internally and must be disassembled and repaired.
9. After completing any repairs and/or removal of the gage, be sure to bleed the system of air and recheck the power steering fluid level. Add fluid if necessary.

Important: When adding fluid, always use GM P/N 1050017 (or equivalent meeting GM Specification 9985010) power steering fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid will cause hose and seal damage and fluid leaks.