Power Steering Gear and Pump Leaks

SYMPTOMS
The following symptoms may indicate that the power steering system is leaking:
- Fluid leakage is on the floor.
- Fluid leaks are visible on the steering gear or the pump.
- A growling noise is heard either during parking or while the engine is cold.
- Power steering is lost during parking.
- Steering effort is heavy.

INSPECTION PROCEDURE
Complete the following steps in order to inspect the power steering system for an external leak:
1. Wipe the suspected area dry.
2. Inspect the reservoir for overfill.
3. Inspect the power steering system for the following conditions:
- Power steering fluid aeration
- An overflow

4. Inspect the following components. Replace or tighten the components as needed:
- The hose connections
- The O-rings

MOMENTARY HIGH EFFORT WHEN TURNING WHEEL QUICKLY
- Inspect for internal pressure leak.
- Inspect for Insufficient pump pressure.
- Inspect for low fluid level.

5. Verify the exact point of the leakage. The point from which the fluid is dripping may be different from the point where the system is leaking.
Complete the following steps in order to locate any seepage-type leaks:
5.1. Turn the engine to the OFF position.
5.2. Wipe the entire power steering system dry.
5.3. Inspect the pump reservoir fluid level. Add fluid as needed.
5.4. Start the engine.

IMPORTANT: Do not hold the steering wheel at a stop for any length of time. Damage to the power steering pump may result.

5.5. Turn the steering wheel from stop to stop several times, with the aid of an assistant.
5.6. Locate and repair the any leak.
6. Complete the following steps when service is required:
6.1. Clean the leakage area prior to the disassembly procedure.
6.2. Replace the leaking seal.
6.3. Inspect the component sealing surfaces for damage.
6.4. Tighten the bolts to specification. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications.
6.5. Bleed the power steering. Refer to Bleeding Power Steering System.





DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE

1. Install the fitting.
- Tighten the fitting to 27 Nm (20 ft. lbs.).

NOTICE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.

2. If the system continues to leak, complete the following steps:
2.1. Replace the O-ring seal.
2.2. If the leakage is due to damaged threads, repair the fitting nut or replace the line.
2.3. If the housing threads are badly damaged, replace the housing.
3. Replace the following components:
3.1. The dust seals
3.2. The stub shaft seals
4. Perform a power steering gear replacement if the following conditions exist:
- A leak is present between the torsion bar and the stub shaft.
- A leak is present at the drivers side. The direction of the turn does not affect the leak.
- A leak is present at the housing end. The leak spurts when the wheel is bottomed in a left turn.
- A leak is present at the passenger side. Refer to Power Steering Gear Replacement.