Power steering removes the applied force needed to execute the necessary turns while on the road. Many drivers prefer the comfort of easy torque, especially when traveling at a slow speed. The weight and length of vehicles greatly affect the steering force. Drivers with vehicles equipped with power steering only feel a slight resistance when turning the steering wheel, even if the vehicle sits in park. Despite this convenience, you must follow a regular maintenance schedule to ensure that your power steering functions properly. Even if done routinely, maintenance might not stave off necessary repairs and replacements, including O-ring and pulley installation.
Rotate the steering wheel completely in one direction, then in the other direction, to flush and bleed the system of air bubbles and residual contaminants. Read the pressure gauge. Pay attention to low or no pressure from the power steering pump, which signals whether contaminated fluid build-up exists.
Raise the hood and prop it open. Twist off the pulley using the special installation tool. Do not distort the pulley, otherwise it may damage the new pump's bearings. Align the pulley properly.
Lubricate the new reservoir and control valve O-rings with O-ring grease before proceeding with installation. Position the O-ring in its groove, making sure not to cover the pressure bypass hole.
Use the special installation tool to properly mount the pulley on to the new pump's drive shaft. Align the pulley to its exact placement using a laser alignment tool.
Check with your dealer or local auto parts store to see which power steering fluid to use for your vehicle. Refill the power steering reservoir. Rotate the steering wheel completely in one direction, then the other, to flush and bleed the system of air bubbles and residual contaminants.
