Chrysler Dodge Caravan 2002 Manual page 1506

RS
STEERING (Continued)
(6) Start engine and let idle just long enough to
circulate power steering fluid through the analyzer
and hoses. Shut off engine.
(7) Check power steering fluid level and add fluid
as necessary. Start engine again and let idle until the
air is out of the fluid.
(8) Gauge should read below 300 psi (2068 kPa). If
above, inspect the hoses for restrictions and repair as
necessary. The initial pressure should be in the range
of 100-275 psi (689-1896 kPa) depending on fluid
temperature. The flow meter should read above 1.5
GPM.
CAUTION: The following test procedure involves
testing maximum pump pressure output and flow
control valve operation. Do not leave valve closed
for more than four seconds as the pump could be
damaged.
NOTE: Power steering pump maximum pressure for
2.4L engines is 1,200 – 1,350 psi (8,274 – 9,308
kPa). Power steering pump maximum pressure for
all other engines is 1,400 – 1,500 psi (9,653 – 10,342
kPa).
(9) Close analyzer valve fully three times and
record highest pressure indicated each time. All three
readings must be within specifications. If any of the
three power steering pump pressures are above or
POWER STEERING NOISE
CONDITION
OBJECTIONABLE HISS
OR WHISTLE*
RATTLE OR EXCESSIVE
CLUNK**
POSSIBLE CAUSES
1. Damaged or mispositioned
steering column shaft/coupling dash
panel seal.
2. Noisy valve in power steering
gear.
3. Mis-routed power steering hose.
1. Power steering gear loose on front
suspension crossmember.
2. Front suspension crossmember
mounting fasteners loose at frame.
3. Loose tie rod (outer or inner).
below specifications, replace pump. (Refer to 19 -
STEERING/PUMP - REMOVAL)
CAUTION: Do not force the steering to operate
against the stops for more than 4 seconds at a time
because pump damage can result.
(10) Once the pump has been verified as working
correctly, completely open the valve on the Power
Steering Analyzer. Turn the steering wheel to the
extreme left until the stop in the steering gear is
met. Hold it there for 2–4 seconds, then release it.
Now turn the steering wheel to the right until the
right stop is met. Hold it there for 2–4 seconds, then
release it. Record the stabilized pressure at each
position. Compare the recorded readings to the spec-
ifications. If the output pressures are not within 100
psi (689 kPa) of one another against either stop or
are below specifications, the steering gear is leaking
internally and must be replaced. (Refer to 19 -
STEERING/GEAR - REMOVAL)
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STEERING
SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS CHARTS
NOTE: There are three diagnosis charts following
that cover POWER STEERING NOISE, STEERING
WHEEL FEEL, and POWER STEERING FLUID.
1. Reposition or replace steering
column shaft/coupling dash panel seal.
2. Replace power steering gear.
3. Check routing of power steering
hoses. Ensure hoses do not come in
unwanted contact with other
components and objects.
1. Inspect power steering gear
mounting bolts. Replace as necessary.
Tighten to the specified torque.
2. Tighten the front suspension
crossmember mounting fasteners to the
specified torque.
3. Check tie rod pivot points for wear.
Replace worn/loose parts as required.
STEERING 19 - 3
CORRECTION