FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
Courtesy of Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Initial Operation

STANDARD PROCEDURE - POWER STEERING PUMP - INITIAL OPERATION

WARNING: THE FLUID LEVEL SHOULD BE CHECKED WITH ENGINE OFF TO PREVENT INJURY FROM MOVING COMPONENTS.

CAUTION: Mopar ATF+4 Automatic Transmission fluid or equivalent is to be used in the power steering system. No other power steering or automatic transmission fluid is to be used in the system. Damage may result to the power steering pump and system if any other fluid is used, and do not overfill.

Wipe filler cap clean, then check the fluid level. The dipstick should indicate COLD when the fluid is at normal temperature.
1. Turn steering wheel all the way to the left
2. Fill the pump fluid reservoir to the proper level and let the fluid settle for at least two (2) minutes.
3. Raise the front wheels off the ground.
4. Slowly turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock 20 times with the engine off while checking the fluid level.

NOTE: For vehicles with long return lines or oil coolers turn wheel 40 times.

5. Start the engine. With the engine idling maintain the fluid level.
6. Lower the front wheels and let the engine idle for two minutes.
7. Turn the steering wheel in both direction and verify power assist and quiet operation of the pump. If the fluid is extremely foamy or milky looking, allow the vehicle to stand a few minutes and repeat the procedure.

CAUTION: Do not run a vehicle with foamy fluid for an extended period. This may cause pump damage.