Savana 1/2 Ton Van V8-305 5.0L VIN M SFI (1998)
Power Steering Bleeding: Service and Repair
BEFORE BLEEDING
Inspect
1. The steering system and correct as needed.
2. All hoses for any contact to other components.
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Steering system noise could be caused by hoses touching frame, body, or engine.
3. All hose connections for tightness.
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Loose connections might not leak, but could allow air into the system.
WHEN TO BLEED THE SYSTEM
1. After any component replacement.
2. After disconnection of any line.
3. Steering system noise.
WHY BLEED THE SYSTEM
1. To prevent pump damage.
2. To ensure proper system operation.
3. To stop steering system noise.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
1. Foam or bubbles in the fluid.
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Fluid must be completely free of bubbles in Step 5 of the bleeding procedure. Be alert to periodic bubbles that could indicate a loose
connection or leaking O-ring seal in either the return hose or pressure hose.
2. Discolored fluid (milky, opaque or light tan color).
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Switch ignition off and wait 2 minutes. Recheck hose connections and repeat Steps 7 through 10 of the bleeding procedure. If the condition
still exists, verify or replace these possible causes:
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The return hose clamps.
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The return hose rings.
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The pressure hose O-rings.
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The gear cylinder line O-rings.
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Fill the system and repeat the bleed procedure for each possible cause. Repeat Steps 7 through 10.
NOISE IN THE STEERING SYSTEM
With the engine running, recheck hoses for possible contact with the frame, body and engine. If no contact, follow either method below to cool down
the fluid and re-pressurize the system.
Method 1: Normal Cool Down
Switch the engine off. Wait for the system to cool and install reservoir cap.
Method 2: Partial Fluid Replacement
Switch the engine off. Use a suction device to remove fluid from the reservoir. Refill with cool and clean fluid and install the reservoir cap.
BLEEDING THE SYSTEM
1. Turn the ignition switch off.
2. Raise the front wheels off the ground.
3. Turn the steering wheel "FULL" left.
4. Fill the fluid reservoir to the "FULL COLD" level and leave the reservoir cap off.
5. With an assistant, check the fluid level and condition by turning the steering wheel from "LOCK" to "LOCK" at least 20 times.
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On systems with a long return line or auxiliary fluid coolers, turn the steering wheel from "LOCK to LOCK" at least 40 times.
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Trapped air may cause the fluid to overflow. Thoroughly clean any spilled fluid to allow for any leak checks.
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Keep the fluid at the "FULL COLD" level.
6. While turning the steering wheel, check the fluid level constantly.
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Bubbles should not be present. For any signs of bubbles, recheck the connections and repeat Step 5 of the bleeding procedure.
7. Start the engine. With the engine idling, maintain the fluid level and install the reservoir cap.
8. Return the steering wheel to the "CENTER" position, and lower the vehicle.
9. Run the engine at an idle for two minutes.
10. Turn the steering wheel in both directions and verify the following:
