How to Bleed a Hydro Booster

A hydro booster system takes pressure from your car's power steering pump and converts it into pressure on the brake system, making stopping easier for you. Adding a hydro booster to your existing brake system is not a substitute for repairing brake components but is instead a tool for improving performance. The instructions for hydro booster kits vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. These instructions work for a Ford Astro.

Things You'll Need

  • Power steering fluid
  • 2 Jacks
  • Use the two jacks to lift your front wheels at least to the height where you could easily change tires.

  • Turn the steering wheel all the way to the left.

  • Take the lid of the power steering fluid reservoir and fill it to the "Full" or "Cold" level (depending on your model). Don't put the cap back on yet.

  • Turn the steering wheel completely to the left and right at least 20 times. Get a friend to watch the level of the power steering fluid as you do this, and to watch out for bubbles. If there are any bubbles, you have a problem with one of the connections, so check and secure them. Then start turning the wheel again.

  • Turn the engine back on. Check the power steering fluid level to make sure it is still in acceptable range. Turn the steering wheel back to center and lower the jacks.

  • Let the engine idle for two minutes, then turn the wheel left and right. If you don't hear any noise, and there aren't any leaks, take the lid off the reservoir again. If you don't see any foam or bubbles in the reservoir, you are done.