Hydraulic System Pressure Test

NOTE: Ensure fluid level is correct, idle speed is normal, and pump pulley is operating correctly. Any of these problems can affect test results.

Place container under power steering pump, and disconnect pressure hose from pump. Connect spare pressure hose to pump. Connect Power Steering Pressure Tester (J-5176-D) or Power Steering System Analyzer (J-25323-A) to both hoses. Open valve on gauge.
Start engine, and allow system to reach normal operating temperature and pressure. Pressure range with valve open on tester/analyzer should be 80-125 psi (5.6-8.8 kg/cm² ). Record pressure reading for future use. If pressure reading is more than 150 psi (10.6 kg/cm² ), inspect power steering pipes/hoses for restrictions. Inspect fluid level, and add power steering fluid as needed. If fluid level is extremely low, bleed system. See HYDRAULIC SYSTEM BLEEDING under LUBRICATION.

CAUTION: Do not close valve longer than 5 seconds, or damage to pump may result.

Close, then open, gauge valve. Repeat this 3 times, and record each reading when valve is closed. Readings should be within 50 psi (3.5 kg/cm² ) of each other, and at least 1000 psi (70.3 kg/cm² ) each. If readings are as specified, go to step 5. If readings are not as specified, pump valve is sticking. Go to next step.
If valve is sticking, remove and clean valve. Use crocus cloth to remove burrs. Flush valve if dirty. If valve is extremely dirty, disassemble and clean pump and steering gear. See STEERING PUMP and STEERING GEAR under OVERHAUL.
Open valve. Lightly touch right and left stops with steering wheel, and record highest pressure at each stop. If pressure at both stops is not same as pressure recorded in step 2, steering gear is leaking internally, and must be disassembled and repaired. See STEERING GEAR under OVERHAUL. If all readings are as specified, turn engine off. Remove gauge and spare hose. Reconnect pressure hose, and inspect fluid level. Bleed system. See HYDRAULIC SYSTEM BLEEDING under LUBRICATION.