FixVault
Home › Chevrolet › 2003 › Tracker 2D Utility, 4WD, Automatic › Repair and Diagnosis › Steering › Power Steering System › Repair Instructions › Bleeding the Power Steering System › Bleed Procedure

Bleed Procedure

NOTE: 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.
NOTE: When adding fluid or making a complete fluid change, always use the proper power steering fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid will cause hose and seal damage and fluid leaks.
IMPORTANT: Hoses touching the frame, body, or engine may cause system noise.
IMPORTANT: Loose connections may not leak, but may allow air into the steering system.
IMPORTANT: Maintain the fluid level throughout the bleeding procedure.
  1. Remove the reservoir cap (1).
  2. Inspect the fluid level. Add fluid, if necessary. Refer to CHECKING AND ADDING POWER STEERING FLUID   . 
    Fig 1: Removing Reservoir Cap
    G01469115Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  3. Attach the J 43485 to the J 35555 or equivalent.
  4. Place the J 43485 on the reservoir filler neck.
  5. Apply a vacuum of 68 kPa (20 in Hg) maximum.
  6. Wait 5 minutes.

    Typical vacuum drop is 7-10 kPa (2-3 in Hg). If the vacuum does not remain steady, refer to DIAGNOSTIC STARTING POINT - POWER STEERING SYSTEM   . 

  7. Remove the J 43485 and the J 35555.
    Fig 2: Placing J 43485 On Reservoir Filler Neck
    G01469116Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  8. Reinstall the pump reservoir cap (1).
  9. START the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
  10. Turn OFF the engine.
  11. Inspect the fluid level. Add fluid, if necessary. Refer to CHECKING AND ADDING POWER STEERING FLUID   . 
  12. START the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
  13. Partially raise and support the vehicle in order to allow the front tires and wheels to turn freely. Refer to LIFTING & JACKING VEHICLE in General Information.
  14. Verify the front tires and wheels are in the straight ahead position.
    IMPORTANT: Do not turn the steering wheel to lock.
  15. Turn the steering wheel 180-360 degrees in both directions 5 times.
  16. Turn the ignition switch OFF.
  17. Remove the reservoir cap (1).
  18. Inspect the fluid level. Add fluid, if necessary. Refer to CHECKING AND ADDING POWER STEERING FLUID   . 
    Fig 3: Removing Reservoir Cap
    G01469117Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  19. Attach the J 43485 to the J 35555.
  20. Place the J 43485 on the reservoir filler neck.
  21. Apply a vacuum of 68 kPa (20 in Hg) maximum.
  22. Wait 5 minutes.
  23. Remove the J 43485 and the J 35555.
    Fig 4: Placing J 43485 On Reservoir Filler Neck
    G01469118Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  24. Inspect the fluid level. Add fluid, if necessary. Refer to CHECKING AND ADDING POWER STEERING FLUID   . 
  25. Install the reservoir cap (1).
  26. Lower the vehicle.
  27. Verify the following conditions:
    • There is smooth power assist.
    • The vehicle operates quietly.
    • The pump maintains the proper fluid level.
    • There is no leaking in the steering system.
    • The fluid is free of foam or discoloration.
    Fig 5: Installing Reservoir Cap
    G01469119Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
About FixVault