GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Special Tools

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

  3. Verify that all connections are tight.

  4. Object Number: 443644  Size: SH

    Notice: 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.

  5. Remove the pump reservoir cap.
  6. Important: Use clean, new power steering fluid only.

  7. Fill the pump reservoir with fluid to the Full Cold Level.

  8. Object Number: 443646  Size: SH
  9. Attach the J 43485 to the J 35555 or equivalent.
  10. Place the J 43485 on or in the pump reservoir filler neck.
  11. Apply a vacuum of 0.67 Bar (51 mm Hg) maximum.
  12. Wait 5 minutes.
  13. Typical vacuum drop is 0.07-01 Bar (5-6 mm Hg). If the vacuum does not remain steady, refer to Excessive Drop diagnosis at the end of this procedure.

  14. Remove the J 43485 and J 35555 .
  15. Reinstall the pump reservoir cap.
  16. Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
  17. Turn off the engine.
  18. Inspect the fluid level. Repeat steps 11-13 until the fluid stabilizes.
  19. Important: Do not turn steering wheel to lock.

  20. Start the engine. Allow engine to idle.
  21. Turn the steering wheel 180-360 degrees in both directions 5 times.
  22. Turn off the ignition.
  23. Notice: When adding fluid or making a complete fluid change, make sure to use the proper power steering fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid will cause hose and seal damage and fluid leaks.

  24. Inspect the fluid level.

  25. Object Number: 443644  Size: SH
  26. Remove the pump reservoir cap.

  27. Object Number: 443646  Size: SH
  28. Attach the J 43485 to the J 35555 or equivalent.
  29. Place the J 43485 on or in the pump reservoir filler neck.
  30. Apply a vacuum of 0.67 Bar (51 mm Hg) maximum.
  31. Wait 5 minutes.
  32. Remove the J 43485 and J 35555 .
  33. Inspect the fluid level.

  34. Object Number: 443656  Size: SH
  35. Reinstall the pump reservoir cap.

Excessive Vacuum Drop Diagnosis

  1. If the vacuum continues to drop, remove the pressure and return hose from the pump.

  2. Object Number: 443667  Size: SH
  3. Insert the plugs (1, 2) supplied together with the J 43485 into the pressure and return port.

  4. Object Number: 443646  Size: SH
  5. Attach the J 43485 to the J 35555 or equivalent.
  6. Place the J 43485 on or in the pump reservoir filler neck.
  7. Apply a vacuum of 0.67 Bar (20 mm Hg) maximum.
  8. If the vacuum drops again, repair or replace the pump. If the vacuum holds steady, continue to check the other parts of the steering system.
  9. Important: Fluid must be free from bubbles and foam. Be aware of periodic bubbles that indicate a loose connection or leaking O-ring seal in the return hose or the pressure hose.

    Fluid must be free from discoloration.

  10. Observe the fluid.
  11. If condition persists, replace the following parts:
  12. • The return hose clamps
    • The return hose O-rings
    • The pressure hose O-rings
    • The gear cylinder line O-rings
    • The reservoir to pump O-ring
  13. Repeat the bleed procedure from the beginning.
  14. In order to make the system reach the operating temperature, drive the vehicle approximately 16 km (10 mi). Then park the vehicle on a flat level surface.
  15. Verify the following conditions:
  16. • There is smooth power assist.
    • The vehicle operates quietly.
    • The pump maintains the proper fluid level.
    • there is not any leaking in the steering system.
    • The fluid is free of foam or discoloration.