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Power Steering Fluid: Inspection

  1. Check fluid level  :
    1. Keep the vehicle level.
    2. NOTE: Check that the fluid level is within the HOT LEVEL range on the reservoir cap dipstick. If the fluid is cold, check that it is within the COLD LEVEL range.
    3. With the engine stopped, check the fluid level in the oil reservoir.

      If necessary, add fluid.

      1. Fluid: ATF DEXRON® II or III 

    4. Start the engine and run it at idle.
    5. Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times to boost fluid temperature.
      1. Fluid temperature: 80°C (176°F) 
      Fig 1: Identifying Power Steering Fluid Level Marks
      G01025984Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    6. Check for foaming or emulsification.
      Fig 2: Inspecting Power Steering Fluid For Air Bubbles
      G01025985Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002

      If there is foaming or emulsification, bleed power steering system. See BLEEDING .

    7. With the engine idling, measure the fluid level in the oil reservoir.
      Fig 3: Identifying Power Steering Fluid Reservoir Fluid Level Marks
      G01025986Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    8. Stop the engine.
    9. Wait a few minutes and remeasure the fluid level in the oil reservoir.
      1. Maximum fluid level rise: 5 mm (0.20 in.) 

      If a problem is found, bleed power steering system. See BLEEDING .

    10. Check the fluid level.
  2. Check steering fluid pressure  :
    1. Remove the 3 bolts and air cleaner assembly. See COMPONENTS .
    2. Disconnect the pressure feed tube from the PS vane pump. See step  4 under REMOVAL.
    3. NOTE: Check that the valve of the SST is in the open position.
      Fig 4: Proper Connection Of SST
      G01025987Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    4. Connect SST, as shown in the illustration.
      1. SST 09640-10010 (09641-01010, 09641-01030, 09641-01060)
    5. Bleed the power steering system. See BLEEDING .
    6. Start the engine and run it at idle.
    7. Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times to boost fluid temperature.
      1. Fluid temperature: 80 °C (176 °F) 
    8. NOTE:
      • Do not keep the valve closed for more than 10 seconds.
      • Do not let the fluid temperature become too high.
      Fig 5: Diagramming Power Steering Fluid Pressure Test With Valve Closed
      G01025988Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    9. With the engine idling, close the valve of the SST and observe the reading on the SST.
      1. Minimum fluid pressure: 8,336 kPa (85 kgf/cm 2  , 1,209 psi) 
    10. With the engine idling, open the valve fully.
    11. NOTE: Do not turn the steering wheel.
      Fig 6: Diagramming Power Steering Fluid Pressure Test With Valve Open Wheels Centered
      G01025989Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    12. Measure the fluid pressure at engine speeds of 1,000 rpm and 3,000 rpm.
      1. Difference fluid pressure: 490 kPa (5 kgf/cm 2  , 71 psi) or less 
    13. NOTE:
      • Do not maintain lock position for more than 10 seconds.
      • Do not let the fluid temperature become too high.
      Fig 7: Diagramming Power Steering Fluid Pressure Test With Valve Open - Wheels At Full Lock Position
      G01025990Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    14. With the engine idling and valve fully opened, turn the steering wheel to full lock.
      1. Minimum fluid pressure: 8,336 kPa (85 kgf/cm 2  , 1,209 psi) 
    15. Disconnect the SST.
      1. SST 09640-10010 (09641-01010, 09641-01030, 09641-01060)
    16. Connect the pressure feed tube. See INSTALLATION .
    17. Install the air cleaner and 3 bolts. See COMPONENTS .
    18. Bleed the power steering system. See BLEEDING .