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.
1994 Ford Probe Base, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Pressure Testing
- Reservoir must be kept full and at normal operating temperature during testing. Attach tester between pressure line and pump, ensuring gauge is between pump and tester valve. Start engine and let idle for 2 minutes.
- With engine idling and fluid hot, record pressure and flow with tester valve open. See POWER STEERING PUMP FLOW SPECIFICATIONS . If flow is less than specification, pump may require service. Proceed with testing before servicing any component.
- If pressure at idle is more than specification, check hoses for restrictions. See POWER STEERING PUMP PRESSURE SPECIFICATIONS . Partially close tester valve. Allow pressure to increase to 740 psi (52 kg/cm2 ). Record flow. If flow is less than minimum, pump cam pack requires replacement. Proceed with testing.
- Close and partially open tester valve 3 times. Tester valve must not remain closed more than 5 seconds. Observe and record pressure each time valve is closed. If readings are not correct, replace flow control valve.
- Increase engine speed to about 1500 RPM. Observe and record flow. See POWER STEERING PUMP FLOW SPECIFICATIONS . If flow exceeds maximum free flow specification, remove flow control valve. Clean or replace flow control valve as necessary.
- Return engine to idle speed. Turn wheel from stop to stop. Observe and record flow at both stops. Relief pressure readings should be near maximum pressure specification listed in table.
- Flow should drop to less than .5 gal. (1.9L) per minute. If pressure fails to reach maximum or if flow does not drop to less than .5 gal. (1.9L) per minute, excessive internal leakage of steering gear is occurring. Repair or replace steering gear.
- With engine idling, attach pull scale to rim of steering wheel. Measure pull required to turn wheel one complete revolution in each direction.
POWER STEERING PUMP PRESSURE SPECIFICATIONS
| Application | psi (kg/cm2 ) |
|---|---|
| Probe | 1210-1270 (85-89) |
POWER STEERING PUMP FLOW SPECIFICATIONS
| Application | Flow: Gals./Min. (L/Min.) | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Probe | (1) | ||
|
|||
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
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.