Special Conditions Procedure

Tools Required

J 35555 Mity Vac
J 43485 Power Steering Bleeder Adapter

Fig 1: Installing Plugs Into Power Steering Pump Pressure & Return Ports
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

If the vacuum continues to drop, remove the power steering pressure line and the power steering return hose from the power steering pump. Refer to Power Steering Pressure Pipe/Hose Replacement (3.5L V6 LX5) or Power Steering Pressure Pipe/Hose Replacement (3800) or Power Steering Return Hose Replacement (3.5L V6 LX5) or Power Steering Return Hose Replacement (3800) .
Install the plugs (1) (2) supplied with J 43485 Power Steering Bleeder Adapter

Place J 43485 Power Steering Bleeder Adapter on the power steering pump.
Apply a vacuum of 20 Hg maximum.
If the vacuum drops again, repair or replace the power steering pump. Refer to Power Steering Pump Replacement (3.5L) or Power Steering Pump Replacement (3.8L) Power Steering Pump Replacement . If the vacuum holds steady, continue to check the other parts of the power steering system.
IMPORTANT: Power steering fluid must be free from bubbles. Be aware of periodic bubbles that indicate a loose connection or leaking O-ring seal in the power steering return hose or the power steering hose.

IMPORTANT: Power steering fluid must be free from discoloration.
Observe the power steering fluid.
If the condition persists, replace the following parts:
- The return hose clamps
- The return hose O-rings
- The pressure hose O-rings
- The gear cylinder line O-rings
- The reservoir to pump O-ring
Repeat the bleed procedure from the beginning.
Drive the vehicle approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) to warm the system to operating temperature. Evaluate vehicle on a smooth flat surface.
To check for noise problems, verify the following items:
- There is smooth power assist.
- The vehicle operates quietly.
- The power steering pump maintains the proper power steering fluid level.
- There is no leaking in the steering system.
- The fluid is free of foam or discoloration.