Power Steering System Bleeding Process

Bleed the air from the power steering system before operating the vehicle whenever you remove or disconnect any of the following components:

If you allow air to remain in the power steering fluid system, noisy and unsatisfactory operation of the system may result. Bleed air from the hydraulic system as follows:

Important: When bleeding the system, and any time fluid is added to the power steering system, only use power steering fluid as specified in Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .

1. Make sure that the ignition switch is in the UNLOCK position.
2. Turn the steering full left.
3. Fill the power steering fluid reservoir to the FULL COLD level. Leave the cap off.
4. Raise the front wheels off the ground and support the vehicle using suitable safety stands.
5. Place a drain pan under the vehicle to catch any power steering fluid that may overflow.
6. With an assistant checking fluid level and condition, turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock at least 40 times.

•	Trapped air may cause fluid to overflow. Any fluid that spills out will need to be cleaned off of the outside of the reservoir to allow for a proper leak check.

•	Maintain the fluid level at FULL COLD.

•	Fluid should be free of any air bubbles. If any air bubbles are present, check all of the power steering hose fittings for leaks. Repair any leaks, and repeat step 6.

7. Start the engine and allow it to idle. Maintain the power steering fluid level at FULL COLD.
8. Install the power steering reservoir cap.
9. Return the front wheels to the straight ahead position.
10. Lower the front wheels to the ground.
11. After allowing the engine to idle for two minutes, fully turn the steering wheel in both directions to verify the following:

•	Smooth power assist

•	Noiseless operation

•	Proper fluid level

•	No system leaks

•	Proper fluid condition (no air bubbles, foam, or discoloration)

12. If any of the problems remain, refer to Special Conditions in this section.

Power Steering System Bleeding Special Conditions

Foam or Bubbles in the Power Steering Fluid

The power steering fluid must be completely free of bubbles. Bubbles in the fluid indicate a loose connection or a leaky O-ring seal.

Discolored Fluid (Milky, Opaque, or a Light Tan Color)

If the power steering fluid is discolored, wait two minutes, then recheck the hose connections. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding and repeat steps 7-11. If the conditions exist, replace the O--ring seals, refer to "End Plate and Rotating Group Replacement" in Power Steering System. Fill the system and repeat the bleeding procedure.

Noise (Pump Whine or Groan)

With the engine running, check the hoses for possible contact with the frame, body, or engine. Allow the system to cool down if no contact is found. After cooling, restart the engine and allow it to idle for two minutes to allow the system to come up to operating temperature. Replace the power steering pump if noise is still present. Refer to Power Steering Pump Replacement . Repeat the bleeding procedure.