This bulletin has been amended under APPLIED VEHICLES, SERVICE INFORMATION, and Power Steering Gear Inspection. Discard all previous versions of this bulletin.
APPLIED VEHICLES:
SERVICE INFORMATION
When diagnosing possible power steering gear (rack and pinion steering rack, or steering rack) leak issues, it may appear the steering rack is leaking when actually, it's not. Use this service bulletin to help make a more accurate diagnosis of the steering rack.
Power Steering Gear Inspection
CAUTION : Never hold the steering wheel in a locked position with the engine running for more than 10 seconds. Damage may occur to the power steering pump.
1.
Verify the fluid level in the reservoir is within OK (normal) cold or hot range, as it applies.
2.
If the fluid level is lower than specification, check for leaks at all hose fittings for the power steering system.
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For sample locations of inspection, see Figure 3, 4, and 5.
3.
If no leakage is found at any hose fittings, inspect the steering rack dust covers (boots).
4.
If the boots appear similar to the example in Figure 6, the steering rack is not leaking.
a.
Do NOT replace the steering rack.
b.
Clean off any oil/grease residue on the steering rack.
c.
Inspection is complete.
d.
Return the vehicle to the customer and check for leakage at the next dealer visit.
5.
If a boot appears similar to the example in Figure 7, the steering rack may be leaking.
6.
Remove the small clamp, and then squeeze the boot (see Figure 7).
7.
If fluid comes out the small end of the boot, replace the steering rack.
8.
If no fluid comes out, do NOT replace the steering rack.
a.
Verify there are no other vehicle fluid leaks getting on the boot.
b.
Clean off any oil/grease residue on the steering rack and boot.
c.
Inspection is complete.
d.
Return the vehicle to the customer and check for leakage at the next dealer visit.
The following pictures show steering racks that are NOT leaking:
The following pictures show steering racks that are NOT leaking:
