GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Bleed Procedure

Tools Required

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

Notice: If the power steering system has been serviced, an accurate fluid level reading cannot be obtained unless air is bled from the steering system. The air in the fluid may cause pump cavitation noise and may cause pump damage over a period of time.

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.

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.
  •    • 

    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: 461492  Size: SH

      Important: Maintain the fluid level throughout the bleeding procedure.

    2. Remove the reservoir cap (1).
    3. Inspect the fluid level. Add fluid, if necessary. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid .
    4. Attach the J 43485 to the J 35555 .
    5. Place the J 43485 on the reservoir filler neck.
    6. Apply a vacuum of 20 in Hg maximum.
    7. Wait 5 minutes.
    8. Typical vacuum drop is 2-3 in Hg. If the vacuum does not remain steady, refer to the following procedures:

      •  Power Steering Gear and Pump Leaks
      •  External Leakage Check
      •  Power Steering System Test
    9. Remove the J 43485 and the J 35555 .
    10. Reinstall the pump reservoir cap (1).
    11. START the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
    12. Turn OFF the engine.
    13. Inspect the fluid level. Add fluid, if necessary. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid .

    14. Object Number: 443653  Size: SH
    15. START the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
    16. Partially raise and support the vehicle in order to allow the front tires and wheels to turn freely. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
    17. Ensure the front tires and wheels are in the straight ahead position.
    18. Important: Do not turn the steering wheel to lock.

    19. Turn the steering wheel 360 degrees in both directions 5 times.
    20. Turn the ignition switch OFF.

    21. Object Number: 461492  Size: SH
    22. Remove the reservoir cap (1).
    23. Inspect the fluid level. Add fluid, if necessary. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid .
    24. Attach the J 43485 to the J 35555 .
    25. Place the J 43485 on the reservoir filler neck.
    26. Apply a vacuum of 20 in Hg maximum.
    27. Wait 5 minutes.
    28. Remove the J 43485 and the J 35555 .
    29. Inspect the fluid level. Add fluid, if necessary. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid .
    30. Install the reservoir cap (1).
    31. Lower the vehicle.