Pressure Test
- With belt tension correct, disconnect power steering pump pressure hose, keeping hose end raised to prevent fluid loss. Connect pressure hose of gauge to power steering pump fitting and connect second hose from valve side of tester to steering gear inlet.
- Open valve and run engine until fluid reaches normal operating temperature of 170°F (77°C). Check fluid level and add if necessary.
- Note pressure reading with valve open and engine idling. Pressure shoule be 80-125 psi (5.6-8.8 kg/cm2 ).
- If pressure is above 200 psi (14 kg/cm2 ), check hoses for restrictions and poppet valve (Saginaw gears) for proper assembly.
- If flow drops below 1.8 gals./min. (6.8 L/min.) for Saginow pumps, disassemble pump and replace cam pack.
- Close gate valve completely and reopen 3 times. Record highest reading each time. DO NOT close valve for more than 5 seconds.
- If pressure is less than specification, replace flow control valve. If within specifications, but readings are not within 50 psi (3.5 kg/cm2 ) of each other, remove flow control valve and clean or replace.
- If flow varies from step 5) reading by more that 1 gal./min. (3.8 L/min.), remove flow control valve and clean or replace.
- With valve open, turn steering wheel all the way from right-to-left stops and record pressure. DO NOT hold wheel against stops more than 5 seconds. Pressure should be the same as recorded in Pressure Test Specifications.