Tools Required

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.

1. Verify that the hoses do not touch any other part of the vehicle.

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

2. Verify that all hose connections are tight.




Important: Maintain the fluid level throughout the bleed procedure.

3. Remove the pump reservoir cap.

Important: Use clean, new power steering fluid only.

4. Fill the pump reservoir with fluid to the MAX index level mark on the reservoir.
5. Recheck the fluid level with the engine running and fluid at operating temperature
6. Attach the J 44435 to the J 35555 or equivalent.
7. Place the J 44435 on or in the reservoir neck.
8. Apply a vacuum of 68 kPa (20 in Hg) maximum.
9. Wait 5 minutes.

Typical vacuum drop is 7-10 kPa (2-3 inches Hg). If the vacuum does not remain steady, refer to Excessive Vacuum Drop Diagnosis at the end of this procedure.

10. Remove the J 44435 and the J 35555 .
11. Reinstall the reservoir cap.
12. Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
13. Turn off the engine.
14. Verify the fluid level. Repeat steps 11-13 until the fluid stabilizes.

Important: Do not turn steering wheel to lock.

15. Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
16. Turn the steering wheel 180-360 degrees in both directions 5 times.
17. Switch the ignition off.
18. Verify the fluid level.



19. Remove the reservoir cap.



20. Attach the J 44435 to the J 35555 or equivalent.
21. Place the J 44435 on or in the reservoir filler neck.
22. Apply a vacuum of 68 kPa (20 in Hg) maximum.
23. Wait 5 minutes.
24. Remove the J 44435 and the J 35555 .
25. Verify the fluid level and fill as needed.



26. Reinstall the reservoir cap.

1. Attach the J 44435 to the J 35555 or equivalent.
2. Place the J 44435 on or in the reservoir filler neck.
3. Apply a vacuum of 68 kPa (20 in Hg) maximum.
4. If the vacuum drops again, continue to check the other parts of the steering system.

Important: Fluid must be free from bubbles and foam. Be aware of periodic bubbles that indicate a loose connection or leaking O-ring seal in the return hose or the pressure hose.

Fluid must be free from discoloration.
5. Observe the fluid.
6. If condition persists, check the following parts:

•	The suction hose and adapters

•	The presure hose and adapters

•	The return hose and adapters

•	The brake booster hose and adapters

•	The pump and gear fitting and O-rings

•	The suction hose clamps

•	The return hose clamps

7. Repeat the bleed procedure from the beginning.
8. Drive the vehicle approximately 16 km (10 mi) in order to warm the system to operating temperature. Evaluate vehicle on a smooth flat surface.
9. Verify the following conditions:

•	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.