To properly test the Saturn power steering system, the following tests should be performed, in the order presented.

1. Check power steering fluid level.
2. Check accessory drive belt for slippage.

1. Disconnect high pressure line at steering gear and install Power Steering System Tester SA9134C (or equivalent).
2. Open gate valve on power steering system tester.
3. Run engine until it has reached normal operating temperature. Replace any power steering fluid lost during power steering tester installation. Bleed system if necessary. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding .
4. With engine idling, record power steering fluid pressure and flow rate. If pressure reading is greater than 1034 kPA (150 psi), stop engine and check power steering lines for restrictions.

Important: Do not turn steering wheel while performing this test. This will lead to inaccurate results.

5. Slowly close gate valve until 4827 kPa (700 psi) is indicated on the power steering tester. Record power steering fluid pressure and flow rate. If the flow rate observed drops 3.8 LPM (1 GPM) or more, replace the pump.

Important: Do not turn steering wheel while performing this test. This will lead to inaccurate results.

6. Fully close and open gate valve three times.

Notice: Do not close gate valve for more than 5 seconds at a time. This may damage the power steering pump.

Important: Do not turn steering wheel while performing this test. This will lead to inaccurate results.

Important: Record the power steering fluid pressure each time gate valve is closed. All three readings should be within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other and between 1300-1400 psi (L61) or 1400-1500 psi (L81). If not, replace pump.

7. With gate valve open, increase engine speed to 1600 rpm and record power steering fluid pressure and flow rate.

Important: Do not turn steering wheel while performing this test. This will lead to inaccurate results.

Important: The flow rate should not vary more than 3.8 LPM (1 GPM) from flow rate recorded in step 4. If flow rate does vary 3.8 LPM (1 GPM) or more, check that the flow control valve moves freely in the pump housing. Replace pump if valve does not move freely.

8. Turn steering wheel all the way to the left, then all the way to the right. Record power steering fluid pressure and flow rate at each stop. If flow is greater than 3.8 LPM (1 GPM) at either stop, steering gear is leaking internally and must be replaced.