Bleed Procedure

Bleed the steering system for the following reasons:

• Components replaced.
• Fluid line disconnected.
• Steering system noise occurs.
• Prevention of pump damage.
• Proper system operation.
  NOTE: Use clean, new power steering fluid type only.
  NOTE: Hoses touching the frame, body or engine can cause system noise.
• The hoses must not touch any other part of the vehicle.
  NOTE: Loose connections may not leak, but could allow air into the steering system.
• Verify that all hose connection are tight.

1. Remove the pump reservoir cap.
2. Fill the pump reservoir with fluid to the FULL COLD level.
3. Attach Power Steering Bleeder Adapter J45727 (or equivalent) (2) to Vacuum Tester SA9180NE (or equivalent) (1).
Fig 1: Attaching Power Steering Bleeder Adapter To Vacuum Tester
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
4. Place J45727 (2) on the pump reservoir filler neck.
5. Apply a vacuum of 20 Hg maximum.
6. Wait 5 minutes. Typical vacuum drop is 2-3 in Hg. If the vacuum does not remain steady, see Special Conditions at the end of this procedure.
7. Reinstall the pump reservoir cap.
8. Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
9. Turn off the engine.
10. Verify the fluid level. Repeat steps 8 through 10 until fluid stabilizes.
11. Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
    NOTE: Do not turn steering wheel to lock.
12. Turn the steering wheel 180-360° in both directions 5 times.
Fig 2: Turning Steering Wheel
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
13. Switch the ignition off.
14. Verify the fluid level.
15. Remove the pump reservoir cap.
16. Attach J45727 (2) to J 35555 (1) or equivalent.
Fig 3: Attaching J45727 To J35555
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
17. Place J45727 (2) on the pump reservoir filler neck.
18. Apply a vacuum of 20 Hg maximum.
19. Wait 5 minutes.
20. Verify the fluid level.
21. Reinstall the pump reservoir cap.