Power Steering Bleeding: Service and Repair

Power Steering System Bleeding

Special Tools

* J-23738-A - Vacuum Pump

* J-43485 - Power Steering Bleeder Adapter

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools Tools and Equipment.

Caution:
If the power steering system has been serviced, an accurate fluid level reading cannot be obtained unless air is bled from the steering system. The air in the fluid may cause pump cavitation noise and may cause pump damage over a period of time.

Note:

* Use clean, new power steering fluid only. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers [1][2]Fluid Type Specifications.

* Hoses touching the frame, body or engine may cause system noise. Ensure the hoses do not touch any other part of the vehicle.

* Loose connections may not leak, but could allow air into the steering system. Ensure all hose connections are tight.

* Maintain the power steering fluid level throughout the bleeding procedure.

* Introducing too much air into the power steering system will increase the amount of time required to bleed the system.

* Do not turn the steering wheel until instructed to do so.

1. Apply the park brake.

2. Using a floor jack and jack stands, raise the front of the vehicle until the center of the front wheels are approximately 61 cm (24 in) off the ground. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle Service and Repair.

Caution:
When adding fluid or making a complete fluid change, always use the proper power steering fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid will cause hose and seal damage and fluid leaks.

3. Fill the power steering fluid reservoir with fluid to the bottom of the filler neck.

4. Connect the J-43485 - adapter to the J-23738-A - pump.

5. Hold the J-43485 - adapter on the top of the reservoir filler neck.

6. Apply a vacuum of 51 kPa (15 in Hg, 7 psi).

7. Set the J-23738-A - pump down. The vacuum will hold the J-43485 - adapter in place.

8. Wait 5 minutes. Monitor the vacuum gauge.

Note:
The vacuum gauge needle will fluctuate while the steering wheel is moving.

9. With the key in the ON position and with the engine OFF, have an assistant turn the steering wheel from stop to stop 10 times. Maintain a vacuum of 51 kPa (15 in Hg, 7 psi) while the assistant holds the steering wheel at each steering stop for 5 seconds.

10. Relieve the vacuum in the J-23738-A - pump.

11. Remove the J-43485 - adapter from the reservoir filler neck.

12. Ensure the power steering fluid level is correct. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid Power Steering.

13. With the reservoir cap off, start the engine. Slowly rotate the steering wheel from stop to stop 10 times. Hold the steering wheel at each stop for 2 seconds.

14. Turn the engine OFF.

15. Ensure the power steering fluid level is correct.

16. Lower the vehicle.

17. Ensure the power steering fluid level is correct.

Note:
The vehicle may exhibit some steering shudder while turning the steering wheel with the vehicle stationary and the brakes applied. This condition will dissipate with time and vehicle usage. Drive the vehicle. If you notice the shudder condition is improving, release the vehicle to the customer and explain that the shudder condition will dissipate after some driving.

18. Turn the steering wheel from stop to stop. Inspect the power steering system for leaks and noise.