Power Steering General Servicing Chevrolet Camaro II

TROUBLE SHOOTING

Refer to TROUBLE SHOOTING - BASIC PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL TROUBLE SHOOTING section.

BELT TENSION

TENSION IN LBS. (KG.) USING STRAND TENSION GAUGE

PRESSURE TEST

1. With belt tension correct, disconnect power steering pump pressure hose. Keep hose end raised to prevent fluid loss. Connect pressure hose of power steering pressure gauge to power steering pump fitting.
2. Connect a second pressure hose from valve side of tester to steering gear inlet. Open valve fully and run engine until fluid obtains normal operating temperature. Check fluid level. Add fluid (if necessary).
3. Note pressure reading with engine idling and valve open. On all models, pressure should be 80-125 psi (5.6-8.8 kg/cm 2 ).
4. If pressure is in excess of 150 psi (10.5 kg/cm 2 ), check hoses for restrictions and check poppet valve (in steering gear) for proper assembly.
5. On all models, close tester valve fully and re-open 3 times. Record highest pressure noted each time valve is closed. If pressures are within specifications and range of readings is within 50 psi (3.5 kg/cm 2 ) of each other, pump is operating satisfactory.
6. If pressures recorded are high but do not repeat within 50 psi (3.5 kg/cm 2 ), flow control valve is sticking. If pump performance is to specifications, turn steering wheel to both stops with valve open and note highest pressures.
7. If pump output cannot be met in either side of gear, gear is leaking internally. Shut off engine. Remove tester. Reconnect hoses and recheck fluid level.

SERVICE INTERVALS

Check fluid level every 7,500 miles.

CHECKING FLUID LEVEL

Check fluid level with engine stopped and fluid at normal operating temperature (about 170° F). Fluid level must be to "FULL" mark on dipstick.

RECOMMENDED FLUID TYPE

REFILLING & BLEEDING SYSTEM

1. Fill pump reservoir to proper level. Start engine and run momentarily. Stop engine and recheck fluid level. Add fluid (if necessary). Repeat procedure until fluid level remains constant after running engine.
2. Raise and support vehicle so front wheels are off ground. Start engine. Turn steering wheel from side to side several times (without hitting stops). DO NOT hold wheel in full left or right position. Fluid level should remain above pump inlet in reservoir.
3. Fluid with air in it will have a light Tan or Red appearance. All air in fluid must be eliminated before normal steering action can be obtained.
4. Return wheels to center position and operate engine for 2-3 minutes. Road test vehicle and recheck fluid level. Level must be at "HOT" mark on dipstick.

CADILLAC

POWER STEERING PUMP TEST SPECIFICATIONS (CADILLAC)

ALL OTHER MAKES

POWER STEERING PUMP TEST SPECIFICATIONS (ALL OTHER MAKES)