Tools Required

Test the power steering system using one of two tools.

The J 25323-B measures the flow and the pressure. The J 25323-B connects to the pressure line at the pump.

The J 5176-D measures the pressure only. The J 5176-D connects to the power steering pressure gauge using a spare pressure hose connected to the pump.

Use the following procedure in order to test the power steering system:

1. Disconnect the high pressure line at the pump. Use a small container in order to catch any leaking fluid.
2. Connect either the J 5176-D or the J 25323-B to the system.

•	The J 5176-D requires that a spare pressure hose connects to the pump.

•	The J 25323-B connects to the power steering pressure line at the power steering pump.

3. Leave the vehicle in Park or Neutral.
4. Open the valve on the gauge.
5. Start the engine.
6. Allow the system to reach the normal operating temperature.
7. Inspect the power steering fluid level.
8. Add power steering fluid as needed. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid .

Important: Do not move the steering wheel while the engine is running. This will cause inaccurate readings. Ensure that the pressure reading is less than 1034 kPa (150 psi). If the pressure is above 1034 kPa (150 psi), stop the engine and inspect the hoses for restrictions.

9. Note the power steering pressure at engine idle. Use J 25323-B in order to measure the power steering flow rate.

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

10. Fully close the valve three times. If using J 25323-B , record the pressure and the flow readings each time the valve is closed.

•	Each pressure reading must be at least 6895 kPa (1000 psi). Ensure that the three readings are within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other.

•	If the pressure readings are high enough, and are within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other, the pump is functioning properly.

•	If the pressure readings are high enough, but not within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other, the flow control valve in the pump is sticking. If the pump is sticking, complete the following steps:

1.	Remove the valve.

2.	Clean the valve with crocus cloth or a fine hone.

3.	Flush any dirt contained in the system.

•	If the pressure readings are less than 6895 kPa (1000 psi), replace the flow control valve. Reinspect the system. If the readings are still low, replace the following components:

-	The rotors

-

The vanes

11. If the power steering pump is functioning properly, perform the following steps:

11.1.

Leave the valve open.

11.2.

Turn the steering wheel to both stops.

11.3.

Using the J 25323-B , record the highest pressure and flow readings.

11.4.

Compare these readings with the previous highest pump pressure (and flow) readings. If the pressure (and flow) at both stops is not the same as the maximum pressure, the steering gear is leaking internally.

11.5.

Disassemble and repair the steering gear.

12. After completing any of the repairs and/or removal of the gauge, bleed the power steering system of air. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding .
13. Reinspect the power steering fluid level.

Notice: 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.

14. Use GM P/N 1050017 or equivalent. Add power steering fluid as needed. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid .