Things You'll Need:
- Power steering fluid
- Drive belt
- Proper replacement hoses
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Step 1
Make sure the power steering reservoir is filled to the proper level. Low fluid level is a common cause of hard steering, strange noises and momentary increases in steering effort.
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Step 2
Turn the engine off and remove the cover of the power steering fluid reservoir. Stick your finger in the reservoir to feel for dirt sludge or particles. If the fluid is dirty, you'll have to flush the system before refilling with fresh fluid.
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Step 3
Always use the fluid recommended for your vehicle (check your owner's manual). Power steering fluid is designed to resist thinning at high temperatures. While parking, fluid temperatures can reach up to 300 degrees F. Additives maintain good flow under operating temperatures as low as -20 degrees F to prevent stiff steering on cold days. Fluid must be compatible with the rubber used in hoses and seals.
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Step 4
Inspect for leaks, a damaged or worn pump pulley, and loose brackets. Typical leak points include the reservoir cap, reservoir-to-pump-body seal, shaft seal, bolts, fittings and hose connections. Test for leaks with the engine at normal operating temperature. Turn the steering wheel from stop to stop; that is left to right several times. The steering wheel should not be held in the extreme left or right position for more than a few seconds. Look for spurting fluid and wet spots. Power steering conditioners are often effective in stopping leaks for a time.
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Step 5
Check the condition of your hoses. Hoses typically deteriorate from the inside, which means they lose their effectiveness long before showing any external signs of deterioration or leaking. You'll know if a hose has started to deteriorate if it feels soft and spongy. Oil and grease-soaked hoses should be replaced. Replace hard and brittle hoses because these will have lost their ability to expand and contract properly and can crack.
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Step 6
Look for exterior hose wear caused by abrasive contact with metal parts. This can eventually wear a hole in a hose and cause it to burst under pressure. Replace the hose and correct the reason for the damage. Reroute the hose and tighten the brackets using tie downs or rubber sheaths placed over the hose.
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Step 7
Use the correct replacement hoses. Pressure lines can be subjected to hydraulic pressures in excess of 1,200 psi, while return lines carry no more than 50 psi. Thus, they are made differently. Pressure hoses are also subjected to surges in pressures and pulsation, so they must be slightly expandable to reduce or absorb fluctuations. Do not try to get by with makeshift hoses, “make do” repairs, or the use of duct tape to seal leaks.
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Step 8
Check the drive belt’s condition and tension. Under-tensioning will cause the belt to spin on its pulley. A slipping belt decreases pump output and causes erratic operation. Over-tensioned belts will place excessive loads on pump shaft bearings.
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Step 9
Other conditions to watch for include splitting, edge/sidewall wear, grease or oil on the belt sidewall or in pulley grooves, or pilling that occurs when rubber compound from the belt wears off and settles in the V-grooves, causing uneven rideout, vibration and belt noise.
