The Steering System:
Inspecting The Power Steering System
Begin the inspection by checking the level and condition of the steering oil and looking for evidence of leaks.
Inspect the hydraulic pump. Look especially for signs of leaks at the pump mounting gasket and between the pump and its cover. Tighten the mounting and cover bolts if necessary.
Examine all hydraulic hoses carefully, especially the high-pressure hoses between the pump and the control valve and between the control valve and power cylinder. The hoses should be secure in their clamps and not rubbing against other parts or components. Unless there is evidence of leaks, do not tighten any of the hose fittings.
Check the control valve for evidence of leaks and for loose valve-to-steering jacket mounting bolts.
If no leaks are evident in the system, you can now add oil to the reservoir if the oil level was low when you checked it. Of course, if you find the oil dirty or mixed with water, drain the old oil and refill it with clean oil. While the oil is draining, clean the filter screen. Keep the oil level in the reservoir at 3/4 full to allow for expansion.
Continue your inspection by checking the steering gear itself.
Look for evidence of lubrication oil leaks around the gear housing gaskets and seals.
Check the level of the lubrication oil in the steering gear housing by removing the filler plug in the top of the housing. If necessary, fill the housing with the proper grade of gear oil (GO). GO is much heavier than the OE used in the hydraulic system. This makes it easy to decide whether the hydraulic system or the steering gear is at fault if there is a leak around the steering gear housing.
Check the steering gear-to-frame bracket mounting bolts with a wrench. Also check the steering column-to-dash panel bracket bolts for tightness.
Start the engine, and check the hydraulic system for leaks while oil pressure is applied. Remember that high pressure is developed in the system only when a turning effort is applied on the steering wheel. So, have a buddy turn the steering wheel while you look for slight oil leaks. Don't hold the steering against the steering stop for more than a few seconds at a time because this can damage the hydraulic system. The relief valve will open to prevent the pressure from going high enough to rupture lines and units; however, the high pressure creates heat which can damage the system.
Road-test the vehicle. Check for any tendency to wander, weave back and forth, or shimmy. Check for excessive free play, binding, and for pulling to the right or left. Check the action of the steering assist through both right and left turns. The steering effort required should be so small that you can turn the steering wheel with your thumb and forefinger while the vehicle is moving. |