Bleeding the Power Steering System: Notes

Tools Required

J 35555 Mityvac. See Special Tools and Equipment .
J 43485 Power Steering Bleeder Adapter. See Special Tools and Equipment .

NOTE: If the power steering system has been serviced, an accurate fluid level reading cannot be obtained unless air is bled from the steering system. The air in the fluid may cause pump cavitation noise and may cause pump damage over a period of time.

NOTE: When adding fluid or making a complete fluid change, always use the proper power steering fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid will cause hose and seal damage and fluid leaks.

Fig 1: Locating Oil Level

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Important:

Use clean, new power steering fluid type only.
See the Maintenance and Lubrication subsection for fluid specifications.
Hoses touching the frame, body, or engine may cause system noise.
Verify that the hoses do not touch any other part of the vehicle.
Loose connections may not leak, but could allow air into the steering system.
Verify that all hose connections are tight.
Maintain the fluid level throughout the bleed procedure.
1. Remove the pump reservoir cap.
2. Fill the pump reservoir with fluid to the FULL COLD level.

Attach J 43485 to J 35555 or equivalent.
Place J 43485 on or in the pump reservoir filler neck.
Apply a vacuum of 68 kPa (20 in Hg) maximum.
Wait 5 minutes.
Typical vacuum drop is 7-10 kPa (2-3 in Hg). If the vacuum does not remain steady, refer to Excessive Vacuum Drop Diagnosis at the end of this procedure.
Remove the J 43485 and the J 35555.
Reinstall the pump reservoir cap.
Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
Turn OFF the engine.
Verify the fluid level. Repeat steps 8-10 until the fluid stabilizes.
IMPORTANT: Do NOT turn the steering wheel to LOCK.
Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
Turn the steering wheel 180-360 degrees in both directions 5 times.
Turn OFF the ignition.
Verify the fluid level.

Fig 2: Placing Power Steering Bleeder Adapter On Or In Pump Reservoir Filler Neck
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the pump reservoir cap.

Fig 3: Removing Pump Reservoir Cap
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Attach J 43485 to J 35555 or equivalent.
Place J 43485 on or in the pump reservoir filler neck.
Apply a vacuum of 68 kPa (20 in Hg) maximum.
Wait 5 minutes.
Remove J 43485 and J 35555.
Verify the fluid level.

Fig 4: Placing Power Steering Bleeder Adapter On Or In Pump Reservoir Filler Neck
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Reinstall the pump reservoir cap.

Fig 5: Installing Pump Reservoir Cap
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.