Power Steering Flow and Pressure Test

The following procedure is to be used to test the operation of the power steering system on the vehicle. This test will provide the flow rate of the power steering pump along with the maximum relief pressure. This test is to be performed anytime a power steering system problem is present to determine if the power steering pump or power steering gear is not functioning properly. The following pressure and flow test is performed using Power Steering Analyzer Kit, Special Tool 6815.

1. Assemble the power steering analyzer as shown. Attach adapter 6712 and hose 6713 to flow meter 6800.
2. Check power steering pump drive belt tension and adjust as necessary.
3. Disconnect power steering fluid pressure hose, at power steering pump. Use a container for dripping fluid.

Power Steering Analyzer Connected To Vehicle:

4. Connect power steering analyzer to power steering pump and pressure hose. Connect hose 6713 with supplied adapter to power steering pump pressure fitting. Attach power steering pressure hose to adapter 6712 mounted on flow meter.
5. Completely open valve on flow meter.
6. Start engine and let idle long enough to circulate power steering fluid through the analyzer and get any air out of the system. Shut the engine off.
7. Check power steering fluid level, and add fluid as necessary. Start engine again and let idle.
8. Pressure gauge should read below 862 kPa (125 psi), if above, inspect the hoses for restrictions and repair as necessary. The initial pressure reading should be in the range of 345 - 552 kPa (50 - 80 psi). The flow meter should read between 1.3 and 1.4 GPM.

CAUTION: The following test procedure involves testing power steering pump maximum pressure output and flow control valve operation. Do not leave valve closed for more than 5 seconds as the pump could be damaged.

NOTE: Power steering pump maximum relief pressure is 8240 to 8920 kPa (1195 to 1293 psi).

9. Close valve fully three times and record highest pressure indicated each time. All three readings must be above specifications and within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other.
- If the power steering pump pressures are above specifications, but not within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other, replace the power steering pump.
- If the pressures are within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other, but below specifications, replace the power steering pump.

CAUTION: Do not force the pump to operate against the stops for more than 5 seconds at a time because pump damage may result.

10. Open the flow meter valve. Turn the steering wheel to the extreme left until the stop in the steering gear is met, then turn the steering wheel to the right until the right stop is met. Record the highest indicated pressure at each position. Compare the recording readings to specifications. If the highest output pressures are not the same at both stops, the power steering gear is leaking internally and must be replaced.