FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
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Power Steering System Test Procedure

- Tools Required
- J 5176-E Power Steering Pressure Tester 0-2000 PSI
- J 5176-11A Power Steering Pressure Tester Adapter
- J 51 76-5A Power Steering Pressure Tester Adapter

Perform the following procedure to the determine the cause if a hydraulic or a mechanical malfunction of the pump or the power steering gear is suspected.
1. Disconnect the power steering pump pressure (discharge) hose from the pump. Use a small container to catch any fluid which might leak.





2. Connect the J 5176-5A Power Steering Pressure Tester Adapter to the pump.

Caution: After connecting the J 5176, ensure the hoses do not contact the serpentine belt or pulleys. Personal injury may result.

3. Use the J 5176-11A Power Steering Pressure Tester Adapter to connect the pressure tester to the power steering pressure hose.
4. Open the valve on the J 5176-E
5. Bleed the power steering system.
6. Start the engine.
7. Allow the engine to reach normal operating temperature.
8. The pressure should be no more than 1034 kPa (150 psi) with the engine at idle and with the valve open on the J 5176-E.
9. Perform the following steps if the pressure is more than 1034 kPa (150 psi):
- Check the hoses for restrictions.
- Check the hoses for kinks.
- Check the pipes for restrictions.
- Check the pipes for kinks.
- Check the valve on the steering gear inlet hose fitting for proper operation.
- Check the valve on the steering gear inlet hose fitting restriction.
- The steering gear is internally restricted if O.K.
10. Close the valve on the J5176-E three times.

Notice: Do not leave the valve fully closed for more than 5 seconds, or the pump could be damaged internally.

11. Record the pressure reading each time. Each reading should show at least 11,032 kPa (1,600 psi). The three readings should be within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other.
12. The pump is functioning properly if the pressure readings are high enough and are within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other.
13. Replace the pump if the pressure readings are less than 11,032 kPa (1,600 psi).
14. Leave the valve open if the pump checks to specification.
15. Have an assistant turn the steering wheel to both stops.

Notice: Do not hold the steering wheel in the full turn position longer than 5 seconds, as damage to the steering pump may result.

16. Record the highest pressures.
17. Compare the readings with the highest pump pressure recorded earlier.
18. The steering gear is leaking internally and must be repaired if the pressure at both stops is not the same as the maximum pressure.
19. Turn off the engine.
20. Remove the J 5176-E.
21. Connect the power steering pump pressure (discharge) hose to the pump.
- Tighten the power steering pump pressure (discharge) hose fitting to 28 Nm (21 ft. lbs.).

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.

22. Bleed the power steering system.