Bleeding the Power Steering System

Tools Required

• J 35555  Mity-Vac. See Special Tools and Equipment .
• J 43485  Power Steering Bleeder Adapter. See Special Tools and Equipment .

IMPORTANT: Hoses touching the frame, body, or engine may cause system noise.
1. Verify that the hoses do not touch any other part of the vehicle.
NOTE: Refer to Air in the Power Steering System Notice in Cautions and Notices.
IMPORTANT: Loose connections may not leak, but could allow air into the steering system.
2. Verify that all hose connections are tight.
IMPORTANT: Maintain the fluid level throughout the bleed procedure.
3. Remove the power steering fluid reservoir cap.
NOTE: Refer to Using Proper Power Steering Fluid Notice in Cautions and Notices.
IMPORTANT: Use new fluid only.
4. Verify the fluid level is correct. Add fluid if necessary. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid .
Fig 1: Bleeding Power Steering System Using J 43485 & J 35555
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
5. Attach the J 43485  to the J 35555  or equivalent. See Special Tools and Equipment .
6. Place the J 43485  on or in the reservoir filler neck. See Special Tools and Equipment .
7. Apply a vacuum of 68 kPa (20 in Hg) maximum.
8. Wait 5 minutes.

   Typical vacuum drop is 7-10 kPa (2-3 in Hg). If the vacuum does not remain steady, refer to Power Steering Fluid Leaks .

9. Remove the J 43485  and the J 35555  . See Special Tools and Equipment .
10. Install the reservoir cap.
11. Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
12. Turn off the engine.
13. Verify the fluid level is correct. Adjust the fluid level if necessary.
IMPORTANT: Do not turn steering wheel to lock.
14. Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
15. Turn the steering wheel 180-360 degrees in both directions 5 times.
16. Switch the ignition off.
17. Remove the reservoir cap.
18. Verify the fluid level is correct. Adjust the fluid level if necessary.
19. Attach the J 43485  to the J 35555  or equivalent. See Special Tools and Equipment .
20. Place the J 43485  on or in the pump reservoir filler neck. See Special Tools and Equipment .
21. Apply a vacuum of 68 kPa (20 in Hg) maximum.
22. Wait 5 minutes.
23. Remove the J 43485  and the J 35555  . See Special Tools and Equipment .
24. Verify the fluid level is correct. Adjust the fluid level if necessary.
25. Install the reservoir cap.
26. Verify the following conditions:
    • Smooth power assist is present.
    • The vehicle operates quietly.
    • The pump maintains the proper fluid level.
    • No leaking occurs in the steering system.
    • The fluid is free of foam or discoloration.