Bleeding The Power Steering System: Notes

Tools Required 

• J 35555  Metal Mityvac
• J 43485  Power Steering Bleeder Adapter

Important:  Hoses touching the frame, body, or engine may cause system noise.

1. Verify that the hoses do not touch any other part of the vehicle.

   Important:  Loose connections may not leak, but could allow air into the steering system.

2. Verify that all hose connections are tight.
   NOTE: If the power steering system has been serviced, an accurate fluid level reading cannot be obtained unless air is bled from the steering system. The air in the fluid may cause pump cavitation noise and may cause pump damage over a period of time.

   Important:  Maintain the fluid level throughout the bleed procedure.

3. Remove the pump reservoir cap.

   Important:  Use clean, new power steering fluid only.

4. Fill the pump reservoir with fluid to the FULL COLD level.
Fig 1: Identifying Pump Reservoir Cap FULL COLD Level
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
5. Attach the J 43485  to the J 35555  or equivalent.
   Fig 2: Installing Brake Bleeding Tools

   Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
6. Place the J 43485  on or in the pump reservoir filler neck.
7. Apply a vacuum of 68 kPa (20 in Hg) maximum.
8. Wait 5 minutes.

   Typical vacuum drop is 7-10 kPa (2-3 in Hg). If the vacuum does not remain steady, refer to Excessive Vacuum Drop Diagnosis .

9. Remove the J 43485  and the J 35555. 
10. Reinstall the pump reservoir cap.
11. Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
12. Turn off the engine.
13. Verify the fluid level. Repeat steps 11-13 until the fluid stabilizes.

    Important:  Do not turn steering wheel to lock.

14. Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
15. Turn the steering wheel 180-360 degrees in both directions 5 times.
16. Switch the ignition off.
    NOTE: When adding fluid or making a complete fluid change, always use the proper power steering fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid will cause hose and seal damage and fluid leaks.
17. Verify the fluid level.
18. Remove the pump reservoir cap.
    Fig 3: Identifying Pump Reservoir Cap FULL COLD Level

    Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
19. Attach the J 43485  to the J 35555  or equivalent.
    Fig 4: Installing Brake Bleeding Tools

    Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
20. Place the J 43485  on or in the pump reservoir filler neck.
21. Apply a vacuum of 68 kPa (20 in Hg) maximum.
22. Wait 5 minutes.
23. Remove the J 43485  and the J 35555. 
24. Verify the fluid level.
25. Reinstall the pump reservoir cap.

Fig 5: Installing Pump Reservoir Cap

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.