GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 2009 🢒 Spark 🢒 Steering 🢒 Power Steering 🢒 Power Steering System Test

Special Tools

J 44721 (DW310-030A) Power Steering Analyzer

Test Procedure

Measure the fluid pressure as follows in order to determine whether the trouble is in the pump or in the gear:

  1. Verify the power steering fluid level. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid.
  2. Measure the pump drive belt tension. Refer to Power Steering Pump Belt Tension Test.
  3. Place a drain pan below the pump in order to catch the power steering fluid.

    4. Object Number: 1224918 Size: SH
  4. Disconnect the high pressure pipe at the pump.
  5. Connect the hose of the J 44721 (DW310-030A) (1) to the power steering pressure pipe and to the pump.
  6. Apply the park brake.
  7. If the vehicle has a manual transmission, place the gear selector lever in NEUTRAL. If the vehicle has an automatic transmission, place the gear selector lever in PARK.
  8. Open the gage valve fully.
  9. Start the engine and let it idle.
  10. Bleed the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding.
  11. Turn the steering wheel from lock-to-lock several times to warm the fluid to the normal operating temperature.

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

  12. Close the gage valve fully, and read the pressure.

    13. Specifications
    The relief valve pressure is 5,491.7 kPa (796.5 psi).

  13. Immediately open the gage valve fully and read pressure.

    14. Specifications
    The pump pressure specification is 343.2 kPa (49.8 psi).

  14. If the pressure is within the specified limits, the problem is not in the pump. If the pressure is not within the specified limits, replace the power steering pump. Refer to Power Steering Pump Replacement.