Steering Gear: Testing and Inspection

Removal, Setup and Testing

NOTE: Pressure checks or pressure and flow checks may also be conducted using this setup.

1. Disconnect and remove the power steering gear.
2. Place the power steering gear on a bench next to the vehicle.
3. Disconnect the pressure line at the point where the hose connects to the pipe. Extend this line to reach the power steering gear on the bench.
4. Disconnect the return line from the power steering fluid reservoir. Extend this line to reach the power steering gear on the bench.
5. Connect the power steering pipes to the power steering gear.
6. Start the engine and allow it to idle for 10 seconds.
7. Check the power steering fluid level.
8. Start the engine and turn the rack and pinion stub shaft a full turn in each direction. Hold the shaft against each stop for 5 seconds.
9. Inspect for possible leak points.

Installation
1. Stop the engine.
2. Disconnect the power steering pipes from the power steering gear.
3. Remove the extensions and reconnect the pressure and return lines.
4. Install and connect the power steering gear.
5. Start the engine and allow it to idle for 10 seconds.
6. Check the power steering fluid level.