GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Bleed Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 35555 Mity Vac
    • J 43485 Power Steering Bleeder Adapter
    • Bleed the steering system for the following reasons:
       - Components replaced
       - Fluid line disconnected
       - Steering system noise occurs
       - Prevention of pump damage
       - Proper system operation

       Important: Use clean, new power steering fluid type only.

    • See the Maintenance Lubrication subsection for fluid specifications.
   • 
Object Number: 443639  Size: SH

Important: Hoses touching the frame, body or engine can cause system noise.

  • The hoses must not touch any other part of the vehicle.
  •    • 
    Object Number: 443641  Size: SH

    Important: Loose connections may not leak, but could allow air into the steering system.

  • Verify that all hose connections are tight.

    1. Object Number: 443644  Size: SH

      Important: Maintain the fluid level throughout the bleed procedure.

    2. Remove the pump reservoir cap.
    3. Fill the pump reservoir with fluid to the "FULL COLD" level.

    4. Object Number: 443646  Size: SH
    5. Attach J 43485 to J 35555 or equivalent.
    6. Place J 43485 on the pump reservoir filler neck.
    7. Apply a vacuum of 20 Hg maximum.
    8. Wait 5 minutes. Typical vacuum drop is 2-3 in Hg. If the vacuum does not remain steady, see Special Conditions at the end of this procedure.

    9. Object Number: 443650  Size: SH
    10. Reinstall the pump reservoir cap.
    11. Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
    12. Turn off the engine.
    13. Verify the fluid level. Repeat steps 8 through 10 until fluid stabilizes.

    14. Object Number: 443653  Size: SH
    15. Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
    16. Important: Do not turn steering wheel to lock.

    17. Turn the steering wheel 180-360 degrees in both directions 5 times.

    18. Object Number: 443655  Size: SH
    19. Switch the ignition off.
    20. Verify the fluid level.

    21. Object Number: 443644  Size: SH
    22. Remove the pump reservoir cap.

    23. Object Number: 443646  Size: SH
    24. Attach J 43485 to J 35555 or equivalent.
    25. Place J 43485 on the pump reservoir filler neck.
    26. Apply a vacuum of 20 Hg maximum.
    27. Wait 5 minutes.
    28. Verify the fluid level.

    29. Object Number: 443656  Size: SH
    30. Reinstall the pump reservoir cap.

    Special Conditions Procedure

    Tools Required

        • J 35555 Mity Vac
        • J 43485 Power Steering Bleed Adapter

      Object Number: 443667  Size: SH
    1. If the vacuum continues to drop, remove the pressure and return hose from the pump.
    2. Install the plugs (1,2) supplied with J 43485 into the pressure and return port.

    3. Object Number: 443646  Size: SH
    4. Attach J 43485 to J 35555 or equivalent.
    5. Place J 43485 on the pump reservoir filler neck.
    6. Apply a vacuum of 20 Hg maximum.
    7. If the vacuum drops again, repair or replace the pump. Refer to Power Steering Pump Replacement or Power Steering Pump Replacement . If the vacuum holds steady, continue to test the other parts of the steering system.

    8. Object Number: 443673  Size: SH

      Important: Fluid must be free from bubbles. Be aware of periodic bubbles that indicate a loose connection or leaking O-ring seal in the return hose or the pressure hose.

      Important: Fluid must be free from discoloration.

    9. Observe the fluid.
    10. If condition persists, replace the following parts:
    11. • 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

      Object Number: 443663  Size: SH
    12. Repeat the bleed procedure from the beginning.
    13. Drive the vehicle approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) to warm the system to operating temperature. Evaluate vehicle on a smooth flat surface.
    14. To check for noise problems, verify the following items:
    15. • There is smooth power assist.
      • The vehicle operates quietly.
      • The pump maintains the proper fluid level.
      • There is no leaking in the steering system.
      • The fluid is free of foam or discoloration.