When replacing a power steering pump, it's a good idea to understand the way the power steering operates to diagnose problems with the system. The power steering pump creates high pressure fluid in the smaller metal line and pumps it directly to the power steering gear. Once it passes through the gear, it returns to the power steering pump with low pressure through a rubber line attached to the rear of the pump--typically with a hose clamp. This is the easiest way to identify the lines: the high side is the one-piece metal and rubber line and the low side is attached with a clamp.
To remove the pump, the following tools will be required:
Power steering pulley remover tool
Large open end adjustable or non-adjustable wrench to fit the pulley remover tool
Set of 3/8-inch drive sockets
3/8-inch drive ratchet
3/8-inch drive short extension
Set of line wrenches
Remove the power steering belt. Install the pulley removal tool onto the power steering pulley by threading in the end just until it stops. Install the outer "C" clamps onto the pulley nose and the pulley remover and insert the circular retainer to hold the "C" clamps over the clamps. Take a ratchet and socket and hold the center stud from moving while using the large wrench to turn the large center nut counterclockwise to remove the pulley. As the nut is turned it works its way up the threaded stud and the "C" clamps, drawing the pulley with it.
Place a container under the power steering pump or something to contain the power steering fluid when the lines are removed. Remove the power steering lines. Remove the three or four bolts in the front of the power steering pump and remove the pump.
Install the new pump in the same manner it came off and install and tighten the bolts. Install the high-pressure line making sure that the o-ring is in place. Use a little Teflon tape around the threads to make sure of no leaks. Install the low pressure return line.
Install the power steering pulley by pushing it on the input shaft as far as it will go just to hold it on. This time do not use the "C" clamps with the tool to install the pulley. Put a little grease on the bottom of the tool where it will contact the pulley and thread it into the shaft on the pump just until it stops. Hold the center stud with the ratchet and socket to keep it from turning while using the large wrench to turn the large nut clockwise. This will push the pulley onto the shaft. Install the belt for the pump.
Fill the power steering reservoir ¾ of the way full and start the vehicle. Turn the steering wheel left and right from lock to lock three times and check and fill the fluid as necessary. Repeat the procedure to bleed the rest of the air out of the system.
