It’s important to keep your car in good running condition – if something goes wrong with one of its essential systems, you could find yourself stranded on the side of the road. One of the most common repairs you’ll need to make is fixing a power steering pump – and fortunately, this is a very straightforward job. Here’s a guide on how to vacuum bleed a power steering pump, so you can get back on the road as soon as possible!
What is a power steering pump and how does it work?
A power steering pump is a device that helps move the fluid in a power steering system. It works by moving the fluid through a series of hoses to help steer the car. When the pump fails, it can cause the car to lose power and even be difficult to drive.
How to vacuum bleed a power steering pump
There are a few different ways to vacuum bleed a power steering pump. This is the most common method, and it’s relatively easy to do.
1. Park your vehicle on a level surface.
2. Turn off the engine, then remove the key from the ignition.
3. Remove the cover over the power steering pump by unscrewing two screws at the front of the unit.
4. Use a funnel to place a piece of cloth over the top opening of the unit and secure it with another screw.
5. Remove the air filter housing by unscrewing four screws, then removing it altogether.
6. Blowing into both fluid reservoirs simultaneously will cause air and fluid to escape from the pump, and bleeding can begin. Be sure to keep an eye on the gauges to ensure that there is enough pressure being applied to the pump so that bleeding does not stop prematurely.
What are the risks of vacuuming a power steering pump?
If you are vacuuming a power steering pump, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, always wear safety equipment, including goggles and a dust mask. Second, don’t vacuum the pump if it is leaking fluid—this can damage the pump. Finally, be sure to empty the vacuum cleaner bag before moving on to another area.
How to fix a power steering pump that has been vacuum bled
If your car has a power steering pump, then you may have noticed that it doesn’t seem to be working very well. This is often due to a vacuum leak in the system, and can be fixed by following these simple steps.
1) Check to see if the pressure cap on the power steering pump is secure. If it is not, replace it with a new one.
2) Make sure there are no obstructions in the lines leading to or from the pump. If there are, remove them using a vacuum cleaner and a hose.
3) Check the seal around the pump housing. If it’s damaged, replace it with a new one.
4) Try to start the car and spin the wheel in both directions. If the steering feels tight and doesn’t move freely, then there is likely a problem with the pump itself and you will need to replace it.