QuestionI have two 1991 passat with the 9a engines that need to have the power steering system flushed. I oput regular fluid in there. I now know that it takes hydraulic oil. The uestion is this. How can i empty the rack and pinion? so the new liquid will not get poluted? thaml you for yopur time and effort.
AnswerJuan,
Locate the power steering fluid cooling hose in front near the drivers side lower corner of the radiator. Disconnect the hose and drain the power steering fluid.
With the engine off, flush the old power steering fluid out of the steering rack and pinion by turning the steering wheel full lock side to side about 10 times. This sequence pushes the power steering fluid out of the steering rack and into the fluid reservoir in order for it to drain out. It will help to jack the front wheels off the ground.
Some models have a sleeve type filter screen inserted in the fill hole of the power steering fluid reservoir. If it has the filter, remove it and clean it. Clean out the sediment that also exists on the bottom of the power steering fluid reservoir.
Reinstall the power steering fluid hose and fill the reservoir with the proper Vw power steering fluid.
Start the engine and let the car run for 10 seconds at a idle. Important! Do NOT rev the engine up. Revving the engine could cause power steering pump damage. Stop the engine and refill the power steering fluid reservoir again.
Start the engine and let the car run at a idle turn the steering wheel full lock about 10 times from side to side.
Stop the engine again and top off the power steering fluid in the reservoir.
Repeat this entire procedure again if required. Look closely for the correct color. When you are satisfied you have all the bad fluid out, you are done.
- Rick
