Hydraulic System Pressure Test

1994 Plymouth Laser RS Turbo, AWD, AutomaticSECTION Hydraulic System Pressure Test
  1. Disconnect pressure hose from pump and connect Adapters (MB991217-A to pump outlet; MB990994 to steering gear hose), Pressure Hoses (C-4535) and Pressure Gauge (C-3309-E). Start engine, bleed air from system and turn steering wheel several times with vehicle not moving until power steering fluid temperature reaches about 122-140Β°F (50-60Β°C).
  2. Temporarily adjust idle speed to 900-1100 RPM. Fully close shutoff valve of pressure gauge and check pressure. Refer to the HYDRAULIC PRESSURE SPECIFICATIONSΒ  table. If pressure is not within specification, steering pump should be repaired or replaced.
  3. With shutoff valve open, check for no-load pressure. See the HYDRAULIC PRESSURE SPECIFICATIONSΒ  table. If pressure is not within specification, check oil lines and rack and pinion.
  4. Fully close shutoff valve of pressure gauge. Turn steering wheel to left or right and check retention pressure. Refer to the HYDRAULIC PRESSURE SPECIFICATIONSΒ  table. If pressure is not within specification, rack and pinion should be repaired or replaced. See Fig 1 .
HYDRAULIC PRESSURE SPECIFICATIONS

Application psi (kg/cm2 )
Oil Pressure Switch
Activation Pressure 213-284 (15-20)
Deactivation Pressure 100-171 (7-12)
Relief Pressure 1067-1166 (75-82)
No-Load Pressure 114-142 (8-10)
No-Load Pressure Max. 213 (15)
Rack & Pinion Retention Pressure 1067-1166 (75-82)
Fig 1: Testing Hydraulic System Pressure
G94I31623Courtesy of CHRYSLER CORP.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.