Purging Power Steering System of Air

Air trapped in the power steering system, which causes a whine or moan-type noise, can be removed by using a power steering pump air evacuator assembly (devac tool). Fabricate as shown, or use Rotunda Vacuum Tester 021-00014 or equivalent.

 CAUTION: Under no circumstances should engine vacuum be used. Power steering fluid will be sucked into the vacuum system causing malfunction of the vacuum system.

1. Check and fill the pump reservoir with Premium Power Steering Fluid E6AZ-19582-AA (ESW-M2C33-F) or equivalent to the COLD FULL mark on pump dipstick.

2. Remove engine ignition coil wire and raise front wheels off floor. Refer to Section 00-02.

3. Crank engine with starter motor, and check fluid level. Do not turn steering wheel at this time.

4. Fill pump reservoir to COLD FULL mark on dipstick. Crank engine with starter motor while cycling steering wheel lock-to-lock. Check fluid level.

5. Tightly insert the rubber stopper of the air evacuator assembly into pump reservoir fill neck. Reconnect ignition coil wire.

6. Apply 51 kPa (15 in-Hg) maximum vacuum on pump reservoir for a minimum of three minutes with the engine idling. As air purges from system, vacuum will fall off. Maintain adequate vacuum with vacuum source.

7. Release vacuum and remove vacuum source. Fill reservoir to COLD FULL mark.

8. With engine idling, apply 51 kPa (15 in-Hg) vacuum to pump reservoir. Slowly cycle the steering wheel from lock-to-lock every 30 seconds for approximately five minutes. Do not hold steering wheel on stops while cycling. Maintain adequate vacuum with vacuum source as the air purges.

9. Release vacuum and remove vacuum equipment. Add fluid if necessary. Install dipstick.

10. Start engine and cycle steering wheel. Check for fluid leaks at all connections. In severe cases of aeration, it may be necessary to repeat Steps 5 through 9.