Prizm L4-108 1.8L DOHC VIN 8 MFI (1998)
Steering Gear: Testing and Inspection
Diagnostic Information & Procedures
Power Steering Gear and Pump Leaks
SYMPTOMS
The following symptoms indicate that the power steering system may be leaking:
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Fluid leakage is on the floor.
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Fluid leaks are visible on the steering gear or the pump.
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A growling noise is audible either during parking or while the engine is cold.
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Power steering is lost during parking.
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Steering effort is heavy.
INSPECTION PROCEDURE
Inspect the power steering system for an external leak:
1. Wipe the suspected area dry.
2. Inspect the reservoir for overfill.
3. Inspect the power steering system for the following conditions:
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Power steering fluid aeration
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An overflow
4. Inspect the following components:
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The hose connections
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The O-rings
5. Verify the exact point of the leakage. The point from which the fluid is dripping is not necessarily the point where the system is leaking.
Inspect the power steering system for leaks:
1. Turn the engine off.
2. Wipe the entire power steering system dry.
3. Inspect the power steering fluid level. Add fluid as necessary.
4. Start the engine.
NOTICE: Do not hold the steering wheel against the stops while flushing the power steering system. Holding the steering wheel against the wheel
stops will cause high system pressure, overheating, and damage to the power steering pump and/or gear.
5. Turn the steering wheel from stop to stop several times.
6. Locate and repair the exact area of the leak.
Replace the power steering gear if necessary. Refer to POWER STEERING GEAR REPLACEMENT.
Replace the power steering pump if necessary. Refer to POWER STEERING PUMP REPLACEMENT.
Replace the applicable power steering hose or pipe. Refer to POWER STEERING PRESSURE HOSE REPLACEMENT or POWER
STEERING RETURN HOSE REPLACEMENT.
Power Steering Gear Diagnosis
HISSING NOISE
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Under normal conditions some noise may be heard during stationary maneuvering.
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Inspect for hydraulic leak.
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Inspect for air in the power steering system.
MOMENTARY HIGH EFFORT WHEN TURNING WHEEL QUICKLY
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Inspect for internal pressure leak.
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Inspect for insufficient pump pressure.
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Inspect for low fluid level.
