Tools Required

Perform the power steering test using the J 5176-E . Use the power steering system test in order to identify and isolate the hydraulic circuit difficulties. Prior to performing the power steering test, complete the following steps:

1. Inspect the pump reservoir for the proper fluid level.
2. Inspect the pump belt for the proper tension.
3. Inspect the tires for the correct air pressure.
4. Inspect the power steering system.
5. Replace the power steering system parts, if needed.

Important: Perform all of the tests with the engine idling at the normal operating temperature.

1. With the engine OFF, disconnect the pressure hose at the steering gear or the power steering pump.
2. Place a container under the steering gear or the pump in order to catch the fluid when disconnecting or connecting the hoses.
3. Install the J 5176-E to both hoses.
4. Ensure that the gauge is between the shutoff valve and the pump.
5. Open the shutoff valve.
6. Remove the filler cap from the pump reservoir.
7. Inspect the fluid level.
8. Fill the pump reservoir with power steering fluid to the full mark on the indicator.

Important: Do not hold the steering wheel in the full turn position longer than 5 seconds, as damage to the steering pump may result.

9. Start the engine.

Momentarily hold the steering wheel against the stop.

10. Inspect the connections at the hoses for any leaks.
11. Bleed the system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding .
12. Insert a J 5421-02 in the reservoir filler opening.

Important: In order to prevent wearing flat spots in the tires, do not turn the steering wheel more than 5 times without moving the vehicle. Move the vehicle in order to change the tire-to-floor contact area.

13. Move the steering wheel from stop to stop until the thermometer indicates a temperature of 65-77°C (150-170°F) in the hydraulic fluid in the reservoir.
14. Inspect the pump fluid level.
15. Add power steering fluid, if needed.
16. Read the J 5176-E, note the initial pressure reading on the gauge with the valve open.

The normal pressure is 550-860 kPa (80-125 psi).

17. If the pressure exceeds 1 380 kPa (200 psi), inspect the system for the following possible conditions:

•	Restrictions in the hoses

•	Improper assembly of the poppet valve.

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

18. Fully open and close the gauge valve 3 times.

Record the highest pressures attained each time.

19. Determine whether the following conditions are present:

•	The recorded pressures are within 345 kPa (50 psi) of the specifications.

•	The pump functions normally.

•	The recorded pressures are high, but each reading repeats the same pressures within 345 kPa (50 psi) of the specifications at the end of this section.

•	The pump functions within the specifications.

•	The recorded pressures are high, but each reading does not repeat the same pressures within 345 kPa (50 psi). The flow control valve is sticking.

•	In order to repair the sticking flow control valve, complete the following steps:

1.	Remove the valve.

2.	Clean the valve.

3.	Use a crocus cloth or a fine hone in order to remove any burrs.

4.	Flush any dirt from the system, if needed.

5.	If the system is especially dirty, Disassemble the steering gear and the pump.

6.	Clean the steering gear and the pump.

7.	Flush the steering gear and the pump.

8.	Reassemble the steering gear and the pump.

9.	Flush the system and the reservoir.

•	The recorded power steering pressures are constant, but the pressures are below 690 kPa (100 psi) of the minimum specifications.

•	Complete the following steps:

1.	Replace the flow control valve.

2.	Perform the system test again.

3.	If the pressures remain low, replace the rotating group.

20. If the pump pressures are within the specifications, leave the valve open.
21. Turn the steering wheel to both stops.
22. Record the highest pressures.
23. If the maximum pump pressure is not present, disassemble the leaking gear.
24. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
25. Remove the testing gauge.
26. Reconnect the pressure hose.
27. Verify that the fluid level is full.
28. Repair any components, if needed.
29. If the condition remains, verify that the steering and front suspension are functional.