Fluid Pressure

1. Using suitable tool, disconnect pressure line from power steering pump.
2. Connect gauge side of pressure gauge to power steering pump side and valve side to pressure line side.
3. Bleed power steering system as outlined under Power Steering System Bleed.
4. Start engine, turn steering wheel from lock to lock three or four times, ensuring proper fluid level.
5. Allow fluid temperature to reach at least 176°F.
6. Start engine and allow to idle.
7. Close pressure valve and observe valve reading. Do not keep valve closed for more then 10 seconds. Do not allow fluid temperature to become too high.
8. If observed pressure is below specifications, replace power steering pump.
9. Open valve fully.
10. Check and record pressure reading at 1000 RPM and 3000 RPM, less then 71 psi difference should be indicated from 1000 RPM to 3000 RPM. If difference is higher than indicated, repair or replace power steering pump flow control valve.
11. On models with standard power steering, proceed as follows:
a. Ensure valve is fully open with engine at idle, check pressure with steering wheel at full lock. Do not maintain full lock position for more than 10 seconds. Do not allow fluid temperature to become too high.
b. If pressure is below specifications, internal gear housing leak is indicated and must be repaired or replaced.
12. On models with Progressive Power Steering (PPS), proceed as follows:
a. Turn steering wheel to full lock, disconnect solenoid electrical connector, ensure pressure gauge valve is fully opened and engine is running at 1000 RPM.
b. If pressure is below specifications, internal gear housing leak or faulty solenoid is indicated.
c. Apply battery voltage to solenoid. Do not apply voltage for more than 30 seconds to avoid burning out solenoid. Inspect oil pressure, maximum pressure should be 569 psi, if pressure is high, inspect solenoid.
d. Connect solenoid electrical connector, then inspect oil pressure. If pressure is below specifications, PPS system is faulty.
13. Center steering wheel and allow engine to idle. Using suitable spring scale, measure steering effort in both directions. If steering effort is above specifications, repair power steering unit.
14. On models with PPS, apply battery voltage to solenoid. Do not apply voltage for more than 30 seconds to avoid burning out solenoid. Recheck steering effort. Maximum steering effort should be 26 ft. lbs.
15. On models with PPS, if steering effort is not heavier then specification, inspect solenoid.