Tests and checks

TESTS AND CHECKS

IMPORTANT: Never disassemble the power steering pump or the power steering unit. These units can only be overhauled by the manufacturer.

Check the rolling torque with the vehicle stationary and the engine running. The torque should be included between 0.6 daN when the engine is idling and 0.75 daN when the engine is running at maximum rating. If these values are exceeded, check system pressure with the wheels completely steered. For this test, connect a pressure gauge with a suitable T fitting on the pressurised oil pipe leading from the pump to the power steering unit and steering completely to one side. When the steering wheel is forced, the pressure shown should increase to approximately 85 bar. If this does not happen, either the pump or the power steering distribution valves are faulty.

• Idle the engine. Check that the reservoir does not empty completely and turn the steering wheel completely to the left and to the right to bleed the air. Top up to the maximum notch on the reservoir.

TOPPING-UP THE POWER STEERING CIRCUIT AND BLEEDING THE AIR

• Remove the filler cap and top up the reservoir with the prescribed type of oil. 1. Loosen the intake pipe clip on the power steering pump and bleed the circuit until oil flows out.

IMPORTANT: The power steering system is self-bleeding. It is bled by steering completely to the left and to the right with the engine running. Perform this operation whenever the connecting pipes are connected/disconnected.

Steering stiffness can be caused by the pump drive pulley belt slipping or insufficient oil level. If the pump, the operating cylinder or the distribution valve break down, the power steering unit will work like and ordinary mechanical steering system.

POWER STEERING GUARDS

Specific for 1970 T. SPARK 16V Two sound-proofing guards are fitted on the ends to the power steering unit, as shown in the illustration.