How To Bleed Power Steering?

[FredParoutaud]

Hi Folks,

I'm going to change out the power steering pump this weekend. The manual says after installing to "bleed system."

How do I do that? And how much PS fluid will I need? Can I use any ps fluid?

I'll read through the manual, but yous guys always have a bit more to add and I'd like to hear it.

Thanks! :D

Fred

[amf1932]

Front wheels in straight ahead position. Check the fluid level. this level should be at the Cold mark on the dipstick. Let the engine run at fast idle. Turn the steering wheel from side to side without hitting the stops. Keep the reservoir full of fluid as this is done. Recheck the fluid level and make sure it is up to the Hot mark on the dipstick. Use the power steering fluid that's recommended by Lexus.......it's different then the stuff you buy at the auto supply store.

[FredParoutaud]

Thanks Alan, it sounds like something I can actually do without killing myself.

:)

Fred

[iammikey]

Fred, the big key to it all is to make sure you don't run out of fluid as you turn the steering wheel left to right. You wouldn't want to bind anything after you spent all that time changing out the part. Make sure you inspect the hoses really well and replace them if you have to question yourself if they are still good.

[FredParoutaud]

Thanks Mikey! Will do.

Appreciate all the help from everybody. When they wifey pulls the car in tomorrow evening I'm going to get going on it: new timing belt, water pump and power steering. Rock on!

Fred

[mburnickas]

Have fun..Is not the Ps fluid just ATF as outlined in the book?

[FredParoutaud]

Mike, it very well may be, but atf is red and the ps fluid in our es300 looks more like clean oil. To be safe, I bought ps fluid from the Lexus dealer today, along with some antifreeze and silicon spray for the door/moonroof rubber.

Hey, they did NOT have the timing belt cover gaskets in stock -- "special order."

hahahahahaha!

Well forget it, I'll catch them next time.

Cheers,

Fred

[SKperformance]

The resevouir is the return line for the hoses so it automatically will bleed itself all the , the above description is right about left and right ,

I used synthetic in my PS as it is not something that really needs changing much

[mburnickas]

I know in my 98 it states using ATF DEX 2 or DEX 3. Just trying to help you out.