A step by step guide, eventually with pictures.
- Remove as much fluid as possible from the power steering reservoir. I happen to have an 8 gallon fluid removal system, so this part was a breeze.
- Disconnect the return line (the small hose) from the reservoir.
- Plug the fluid return port on the reservoir. I recommend doing this with a bit of hose the same diameter as the return line (measurement to be included later), and jamming a bolt in to one end. This will prevent any fluid leaking all over your pulleys and belts while you are flushing the system.
- Connect a long length of hose or tubing to the return line. This can be done with a coupler, or in my case I was lucky enough to have the tube from my fluid remover be just the right diameter to fit inside the hose, and be long enough to reach my drain pan.
- Jack the front end up just enough so the wheels are off the ground.
- Start the car.
- Steps 8 - 15 are recommended being done with a helper, though I managed it fine by myself.
- Have your helper keep turning the wheel lock to lock, holding it for 2 seconds at each lock.
- As the old fluid is being removed, keep adding the fluid you're using as a flush. It will quickly be pumped through the system.
- When the whole gallon has been run through the system, you should hear a sucking noise from the reservoir.
- Add a quart of the synthetic power steering fluid.
- Have your helper shut off the engine as soon as the fluid runs clear.
- Reconnect the return line.
- Start the car.
- Fill the system to the recommended cold mark, have your helper turn the wheel lock to lock several times, this will bleed any air from the system.
- Take the car out for a spirited drive, and check the fluid level when the system has been heated up. It's recommended that you don't over fill. The reason for this is as the fluid expands it will bleed out of the power steering reservoir cap and get all over everywhere, and that's no fun.
Pictures and refinements will follow. Enjoy.
