Steering (Fluid Reservoir): Description and operation

Fluid Reservoir

1 Supply connection 2 Return connection 3 Lower fluid level mark 4 Upper fluid level mark

5 Reservoir body 6 Cap 7 Filter assembly

The fluid reservoir is mounted in the right hand side of the engine compartment on a bracket attached to the inner wing.

The reservoir comprises a body, a cap and a filter assembly. The reservoir has a capacity to the upper level mark of 335 cc.

An 'O' ring seal in the cap prevents leakage. The cap is pushed onto the latch and turned through 90° to lock. A breather hole is incorporated in the cap to allow changes in fluid level during operation.

A filter assembly is fitted into the bottom of the reservoir. The filter is made from fine nylon mesh which is moulded into the frame of the filter. The filter removes particulate matter from the fluid before it is drawn into the supply connection and is non-serviceable.

The primary function of the fluid reservoir is to hold a surplus of hydraulic fluid in the system to allow for expansion and contraction of the fluid due to temperature variations. The fluid level ensures that the supply connection is covered with fluid at all operational attitudes. Any air that may be present in the hydraulic system will be exhausted from the fluid at the reservoir.

High Pressure Hose

The high pressure hose connecting the PAS pump to the valve unit incorporates an attenuator. The attenuator comprises a bullet shaped valve which is located between two spiral wound springs. The valve operates as a restrictor to damp pressure pulses from the PAS pump, reducing noise and strain on downstream components. The attenuator is integral with the hose and cannot be serviced separately.