Power Steering Fluid: Testing and Inspection
INSPECTION1. Check fluid level.
a. Keep vehicle level.
2. With the engine stopped, check the fluid level in the oil reservoir.
If necessary, add fluid.
Fluid: ATF DEXRON II or III or equivalent.
HINT: Check that the fluid level is within the HOT LEVEL range on the reservoir. If the fluid is cold, check that it is within the COLD LEVEL range.
c. Start the engine and run it at idle.
d. Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times to boost fluid temperature.
Fluid temperature: 80° C (176° F)
e. Check for foaming or emulsification.
If there is foaming or emulsification, bleed power steering system.
f. With the engine idling, measure the fluid level in the oil reservoir.
g. Stop the engine.
h. Wait a few minutes and remeasure the fluid level in the reservoir.
Fluid level rise (Maximum): 5 mm (0.2 inch)
If a problem is found, bleed power steering system.
i. Check fluid level.
2. Check steering fluid pressure.
a. Disconnect the pressure feed tube.
b. Connect SST 09640 - 10010 (09641 - 01010, 09641 - 01030, 09641 -01060), as shown.
NOTICE: Check that the valve of the SST is in the open position.
c. Bleed power steering system.
d. Start the engine and run it at idle.
e. Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times to boost fluid temperature.
Fluid temperature: 80° C (176° F)
f. With the engine idling, close the valve of the SST and observe the reading on the SST.
Fluid pressure (Minimum): 7,400 KPa (1,067 psi)
NOTICE:
- Do not keep the valve closed for more than 10 seconds.
- Do not let the fluid temperature become too high.
g. With the engine idling, open the valve fully.
h. Measure the fluid pressure at engine speeds of 1,000 rpm and 3,000 rpm.
Fluid pressure (Difference): 490 KPa (71 psi) or less
NOTICE: Do not turn the steering wheel.
i. With the engine idling and valve fully opened, turn the wheel to full lock.
Fluid pressure (Minimum): 7,400 KPa (1,067 psi)
NOTICE:
- Do not maintain lock position for more than 10 seconds.
- Do not let the fluid temperature become too high.
j. Disconnect the SST.
k. Connect the pressure feed tube.
l. Bleed power steering system.