Component Tests and General Diagnostics
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTINGWith engine Off, move steering wheel lightly in both directions without turning wheels, and measure distance along its circumference. Distance measured should be less than 1.2 inch.
STEERING FORCE
1. Place vehicle on a level surface and set steering wheel to straight ahead position.
2. Ensure tire pressure is proper, then start engine and warm power steering fluid to 122-140°F.
Fig. 2 Steering Force Inspection:
3. With engine idling, measure steering force using a spring balancer hooked to steering wheel, Fig. 2.
4. Steering force should be less than 11 lbs. on Sidekick and X-90 and less than 8.8 lbs. on Swift and Esteem.
POWER STEERING BELT TENSION
1. Ensure belt is free of damage and fits properly in pulley groove.
2. Check belt deflection at midway point between power steering pulley and crankshaft pulley using about 22 lbs. of force.
3. Belt deflection should be 0.24-0.35 inch.
IDLE UP SYSTEM
With A/C turned Off, if equipped, turn steering wheel and ensure engine idling speed is not slowed down even when load is applied by power steering pump.
HYDRAULIC PRESSURE IN CIRCUIT
Fig. 3 Oil Pressure Gauge Installation:
1. Thoroughly clean hose connections, then disconnect pressure hose from pump and connect oil pressure gauge tool No. 09915-77410 and attachment hose set tool No. 09915-77420, or equivalents, as shown, Fig. 4. When connecting gauge, route hose so that it does not contact power steering belt, or hinder movement of center link.
2. Fill power steering fluid reservoir and bleed system of air, refer to Air Bleeding for procedure. Power Steering Bleeding
3. With engine idling, turn steering wheel to right and left stops to warm fluid in reservoir to 122-140°F. Do not hold steering against stop for longer than 10 seconds or damage to components may occur.
4. With wheels straight forward and engine running at idle, check backpressure on gauge, pressure should be lower than 142 psi. If pressure is higher than 142 psi, check control valve and pipes for obstruction.
6. Increase engine speed to 1500 RPM minimum, then close gauge valve gradually while observing pressure increase and record relief pressure, which should be 850-1140 psi. If pressure is higher than 1140 psi, relief valve may have malfunctioned, replace power steering pump. If lower than 850 psi, power steering pump may have failed or relief valve spring setting is incorrect, replace power steering pump. Do not close gauge valve for longer than 10 seconds or damage to components may occur.
7. Open gauge valve fully and increase engine speed to 1500 RPM minimum, then turn steering wheel left or right stop and record relief pressure reading, pressure should be 850-1140 psi. If pressure is lower than 850 psi, steering gear may have failed, replace gearbox. Do not hold steering against stop for longer than 10 seconds or damage to components may occur.