Chevrolet Trax: Power steering system test
Special Tools
CH-44721 Power Steering Analyzer
For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools.
Rack and Pinion System
Fig. 3: Testing Rack and Pinion System Pressures
Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.
5
This step tests the system for restrictions.
7
This step tests the following components for the following conditions:
- The power steering pump for internal leaks
- The power steering pipes for kinks
8
This step tests the ability of the power steering pump to regulate flow at
maximum pressure.
10
This step tests the ability of the power steering pump to regulate flow under
normal operating conditions
12
This step tests the internal components of the power steering pump and the
steering gear.
Power Steering System Test
POWER STEERING FLUID LEAKS
Special Tools
GE-28431-6 Fluorescent Dye
For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools.
NOTE:
- If fluid is found on a manual steering gear or on an electronic power
steering gear, do not replace steering gear. Vehicles equipped with these
systems do not use hydraulic power steering fluid. The fluid may be
assembly fluid or another system fluid.
- Clean the components and identify the sources of the leaks before
attempting to repair or replace any power steering components. Clearly
mark all locations of leaks with paint, marker, or equivalent for warranty
identification and engineering root cause analysis.
Some customers may comment on a fluid LEAK or NOISY power steering pump. Upon
inspection, the
technician may find power steering fluid leaking from the hydraulic power
steering system. Use the following
inspection procedure in order to diagnose the source of the leak and take
appropriate action to correct the
condition.
- Inspect the fluid level in the power steering fluid reservoir. Refer to
Checking and Adding Power
Steering Fluid. If the fluid level is NOT low, a careful analysis of the
condition is necessary to confirm
that the type of fluid is actually power steering fluid.
- Visually inspect the power steering system and components where the
fluid has accumulated.
CAUTION: Do not clean using brake cleaner or other reactive solvents as
these
solvents can damage rubber gaskets, seals and bushings.
- Use a clean towel or a rag in order to completely clean off all residual
fluid from the power steering
components.
- Add 30 cc (1 oz) of GE-28431-6 dye to the power steering fluid.
- Start the vehicle and warm the steering system by turning to the left
steering stop and to the right steering
stop 10 times with the weight of the vehicle on the front tires.
- Turn vehicle engine OFF.
- Shine a black light on the area where the residual fluid accumulated.
Identify the sources of the leaks.
- Mark all locations of leaks with paint, marker, or equivalent.
- Repair or replace all affected components.
RATTLE, CLUNK, OR SHUDDER NOISE FROM THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM (NJ1)
Rattle, Clunk, or Shudder Noise from the Power Steering System (NJ1)
RATTLE, CLUNK, OR SHUDDER NOISE FROM THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM (2H0, N40)
Rattle, Clunk, or Shudder Noise from the Power Steering System (2H0, N40)
RATTLE, CLUNK, OR SHUDDER NOISE FROM THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM (LUJ, N40)
WHINE OR GROWL NOISE FROM THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM (N40)
Whine or Growl Noise from the Power Steering System (N40)
WHINE OR GROWL NOISE FROM THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM (NJ1)
Whine or Growl Noise from the Power Steering System (NJ1)
INCREASE IN EFFORT WHILE TURNING STEERING WHEEL
Increase in Effort While Turning Steering Wheel
POOR RETURN OF STEERING WHEEL
Poor Return of Steering Wheel
STEERING EFFORT HARD OR TOO EASY IN ONE OR BOTH DIRECTIONS (N40)
Steering Effort Hard or Too Easy in One or Both Directions (N40)
STEERING EFFORT HARD OR TOO EASY IN ONE OR BOTH DIRECTIONS (NJ1)
Steering Effort Hard or Too Easy in One or Both Directions (NJ1)
READ NEXT:
Special Tools
GE-8001 Dial Indicator Set
For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools.
NOTE: This inspection procedure does not supersede local government
required
inspections that have more
NOTE:
Use clean, new power steering fluid only. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids,
Lubricants, and Sealers.
Hoses touching the frame, body or engine may cause system noise.
Ensure the hoses do not touc
SEE MORE:
SPECIFICATIONS
TRIM HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS (USA)
For description see Trim Height Inspection, refer to Trim Height Inspection.
Trim Height Specifications (USA)
TRIM HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS (CANADA)
Trim Height Specifications Encore
For description see Trim Height Inspection, refer to Trim Height Inspe
Diagnostic information and procedures
CONTROL MODULE REFERENCES
Reference Information
Data Link References
Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle
Symptoms - Vehicle
Control Module References