Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
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HOMESERVICE MANUALSDODGE AND RAM1999DAKOTA SLT, 2D PICKUP, 3.9 X, 4WD, STANDARDREPAIR AND DIAGNOSIS (SINGLE PAGE)STEERINGPOWER STEERINGPOWER STEERING SYSTEM - RECIRCULATING BALLTESTINGPOWER STEERING SYSTEM PRESSURE TESTIDLE PRESSURE TEST
1999 Dodge and Ram Dakota SLT, 2D Pickup, 3.9 X, 4WD, Standard
Idle Pressure Test
1999 Dodge and Ram Dakota SLT, 2D Pickup, 3.9 X, 4WD, StandardSECTION Idle Pressure Test
- Remove high pressure hose at steering pump and connect a spare hose to pump fitting. Connect opposite end of spare hose to Pressure Test Gauge (C-3309E). Connect pressure hose from valve side of steering gear to valve side of gauge. Valve must be installed on outlet side of gauge. See Fig 1.
- Fully open shutoff valve on test gauge. With a thermometer in fluid reservoir, start engine and warm fluid to 150-170°F (66-77°C). Turning wheels from stop-to-stop will aid in warming fluid. DO NOT hold wheels against stop.
- With engine at idle and gauge valve open, check initial pressure. See POWER STEERING PUMP PRESSURE TEST SPECIFICATIONS table. If pressure is greater than 125 psi (8.8 kg/cm2 ), check for restricted hoses or crimped lines.
POWER STEERING PUMP PRESSURE TEST SPECIFICATIONS
| Application | psi (kg/cm2 ) | |
|---|---|---|
| Idle Pressure | 50-80 (3.5-5.6) | |
| Relief Pressure | ||
| Dakota & Durango (4WD) | 1450 (101.9) | |
| Ram Pickup | 1450 (101.9) | |
| Ram Van & Ram Wagon | 1400 (98.4) | |
RENDER: 1.0x
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.