GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Bleed Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 35555 Mity Vac
    • J 43485 Power Steering Bleeder Adapter
    • Bleed the steering system for the following reasons:
       - Components were replaced
       - The fluid line was disconnected
       - Steering system noise occurs
       - In order to prevention pump damage
       - To ensure proper system operation

       Important: Use clean, new power steering fluid type only.

    • Refer to the Maintenance Lubrication subsection for fluid specifications.
   • 
Object Number: 443639  Size: SH

Important: Hoses touching the frame, body or engine may cause system noise.

  • Verify that the hoses do not touch any other part of the vehicle.
  •    • 
    Object Number: 443641  Size: SH

    Important: Loose connections may not leak, but may allow air into the steering system.

  • Verify that all of the hose connections are tight.

    1. Object Number: 443644  Size: SH

      Important: Maintain the fluid level throughout the bleeding procedure.

    2. Remove the pump reservoir cap.
    3. Fill the pump reservoir with fluid to the "FULL COLD" level.

    4. Object Number: 443646  Size: SH
    5. Attach the J 43485 to the J 35555 or an equivalent.
    6. Place the J 43485 in/on the pump reservoir filler neck.
    7. Apply a vacuum of 20 in Hg maximum.
    8. Wait 5 minutes.
    9. Typical vacuum drop is 2-3 in Hg. If the vacuum does not remain steady, refer to Special Conditions at the end of this procedure.


      Object Number: 443650  Size: SH
    10. Install the pump reservoir cap.
    11. Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
    12. Turn off the engine.
    13. Verify the fluid level. Repeat steps 8 through 10 until the fluid stabilizes.

    14. Object Number: 443653  Size: SH
    15. Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
    16. Important: Do not turn the steering wheel to lock.

    17. Turn the steering wheel 180-360 degrees in both directions 5 times.

    18. Object Number: 443655  Size: SH
    19. Turn the ignition switch off.
    20. Verify the fluid level.

    21. Object Number: 443644  Size: SH
    22. Remove the pump reservoir cap.

    23. Object Number: 443646  Size: SH
    24. Attach the J 43485 to the J 35555 or an equivalent.
    25. Place the J 43485 in/on the pump reservoir filler neck.
    26. Apply a vacuum of 20 in Hg maximum.
    27. Wait 5 minutes.
    28. Verify the fluid level.

    29. Object Number: 443656  Size: SH
    30. Install the pump reservoir cap.

    Special Conditions Procedure

    Tools Required

        • J 35555 Mity Vac
        • J 43485 Power Steering Bleed Adapter

      Object Number: 443667  Size: SH
    1. If the vacuum continues to drop, remove the pressure and return hose from the pump.
    2. Install the plugs (1, 2) supplied with the J 43485 into the pressure and return ports.

    3. Object Number: 443646  Size: SH
    4. Attach the J 43485 to theJ 35555 or an equivalent.
    5. Place the J 43485 in/on the pump reservoir filler neck.
    6. Apply a vacuum of 20 in Hg maximum.
    7. If the vacuum drops again, repair or replace the pump. If the vacuum holds steady, continue to inspect the other parts of the steering system.

    8. Object Number: 443673  Size: SH

      Important: 

         • The fluid must be free from bubbles. Periodic bubbles may indicate a loose connection or leaking O-ring seal in the return hose or the pressure hose.
         • The fluid must be free from discoloration.

    9. Observe the fluid.
    10. If discoloration persists, replace the following parts:
    11. • The return hose clamps
      • The return hose O-rings
      • The pressure hose O-rings
      • The gear cylinder line O-rings
      • The reservoir to pump O-ring

      Object Number: 443663  Size: SH
    12. Repeat the entire bleeding procedure.
    13. Drive the vehicle approximately 16 km (10 mi) in order to warm the system to operating temperature. Evaluate the vehicle on a smooth flat surface.
    14. Verify the following conditions:
    15. To check for noise problems, verify the following items:
    16. • There is smooth power assist.
      • The vehicle operates quietly.
      • The pump maintains the proper fluid level.
      • There is no leaking in the steering system.
      • The fluid is free of foam or discoloration.