General Procedure
Inspect the following:
| • | The fluid reservoir for overfill |
| • | The fluid for aeration and overflow |
| • | The hoses for loose connections |
| | Note: Verify the exact point of the leak. The point from which the fluid is dripping is not necessarily the point at which the system is leaking. When service is required, clean the leak area upon disassembly, replace the leaking seal,
inspect the component sealing surfaces for damage, and reset the torque bolt to specifications where required.
|
| • | The torsion bar, stub shaft, and adjuster seals for leaks |
| • | The component sealing surfaces for damage |
External Leak Check
The purpose of this procedure is to pinpoint the location of the leak. In some cases, the leak can be easily located but seepage-type leaks may be harder to find. To locate seepage leaks, use the following method:
- With the engine off, wipe dry the complete power steering system.
- Check the power steering fluid level in the pump's reservoir. Adjust the fluid level as necessary. Refer to
Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid.
Caution: Refer to Steering Wheel in the Full Turn Position Caution in the Preface section.
- Start the engine. Turn the steering wheel counter-clockwise and clockwise from stop to stop several times.
- Find the exact area of the leak and repair it.
