Power Steering Pump

Remove and replace the power steering pump on a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine with 390ci V8 engine, including belt removal and pulley transfer.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power steering pump (remanufactured or new) × 1 — Use OEM specification or quality aftermarket
• Power steering pump mounting bracket gasket (if equipped) × 1 — Verify application before ordering
• V-belt for power steering pump × 1 — Verify correct length for 390ci application
• Power steering pressure line O-rings or seals × 1 — Replace if worn or leaking
• Power steering fluid × 2 — ATF Type A or power steering fluid per specification

Fluids

• Power steering fluid (ATF Type A or equivalent) — 2 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
3. Disconnect negative battery cable to prevent accidental starter engagement
4. Place drain pan beneath power steering pump area
5. Cover fender with protective material to prevent fluid damage to paint
6. Remove air cleaner assembly for improved access to pump area

Procedure

1. 1

   Relieve power steering system pressure
   Start by turning the steering wheel fully left and right several times with engine off to relieve residual pressure in the system. This reduces fluid spillage during line removal.
2. 2

   Remove power steering pump drive belt
   Locate the power steering pump belt (separate belt from other accessories on this engine). Loosen the pump mounting bolts and pivot bolt to release belt tension. Slide the belt off the pump pulley and crankshaft pulley. Note belt routing for reinstallation.
3. 3

   Disconnect power steering hoses
   Using line wrenches to prevent rounding, disconnect the pressure line fitting at the pump. Position drain pan to catch fluid. Disconnect the return hose at the pump - this typically uses a hose clamp. Plug or cap all open lines and ports immediately to prevent contamination and further fluid loss.
   ⚠Expect significant fluid spillage - keep drain pan positioned and have rags ready
4. 4

   Remove power steering pump pulley
   Using a power steering pump pulley puller tool, remove the pulley from the pump shaft while the pump is still mounted (provides stability). Thread the puller into the pulley hub and tighten the center bolt to draw the pulley off the shaft. Do not attempt removal without proper puller tool.
5. 5

   Remove pump mounting bolts
   Remove the pump pivot bolt at the lower mounting position and the adjustment bracket bolt at the upper position. On the 390ci V8, the pump is mounted to the driver side of the engine block with a bracket. Remove all mounting hardware and note positions for reassembly.
6. 6

   Remove power steering pump from vehicle
   Carefully maneuver the pump assembly out of the engine compartment. You may need to rotate or angle the pump to clear surrounding components including exhaust manifolds and engine accessories. Drain any remaining fluid into the drain pan.
7. 7

   Clean mounting surfaces and inspect bracket
   Thoroughly clean the pump mounting bracket and engine block mounting surface with a wire brush and solvent. Inspect the bracket for cracks or damage. Check the condition of any gasket surfaces. Inspect all mounting bolts for thread damage or stretching and replace if necessary.
8. 8

   Install pulley on new pump
   Using a proper power steering pump pulley installation tool, press the pulley onto the new pump shaft. The pulley must be pressed on squarely and to the correct depth - typically flush with the end of the shaft or per the alignment marks on the installation tool. Support the pump body during installation to prevent internal damage.
   ⚠️Never hammer the pulley onto the shaft - this will destroy the pump bearings and internal components
9. 9

   Install new pump assembly
   Position the new pump into the mounting bracket, aligning bolt holes. Install the lower pivot bolt finger-tight first, then the upper adjustment bracket bolt. Do not fully tighten at this stage - the pump must be able to pivot for belt installation and tensioning.
10. 10

    Reconnect power steering hoses
    Install new O-rings or seals on pressure line fitting if applicable. Connect the pressure line to the pump and tighten with a line wrench to proper snugness (typically 20-25 ft-lbs feel, though specific torque not provided). Connect the return hose and secure with hose clamp. Ensure all connections are clean and properly seated.
11. 11

    Install and tension drive belt
    Route the new power steering belt around the crankshaft pulley and pump pulley according to noted routing. Using a pry bar against the pump body (not the reservoir), lever the pump away from the engine to create proper belt tension. Belt should have approximately 1/2 inch deflection at the longest span when pressed with moderate thumb pressure. Hold tension and tighten the adjustment bracket bolt, then tighten the pivot bolt.
12. 12

    Fill power steering system
    Fill the power steering reservoir with recommended fluid (ATF Type A or power steering fluid per specification) to the FULL COLD mark. Do not overfill. Start engine and turn steering wheel slowly from lock to lock several times while monitoring fluid level. Add fluid as needed. Check for leaks at all connection points.
13. 13

    Bleed power steering system
    With engine running, continue turning steering wheel slowly from full left to full right lock multiple times until no air bubbles appear in the reservoir. Top off fluid to proper level. Allow system to reach operating temperature and recheck fluid level - adjust to HOT mark if equipped. Check all fittings and hoses for leaks.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall air cleaner assembly
2. Reconnect negative battery cable
3. Remove protective coverings from fender and clean any spilled fluid immediately
4. Recheck belt tension after first 100 miles of operation and adjust if necessary
5. Monitor power steering fluid level for the first few days of operation

Verification

• Start engine and verify no unusual noises from power steering pump (whining may indicate air in system or low fluid)
• Turn steering wheel fully left and right - should operate smoothly without binding or excessive effort
• Check for fluid leaks at pump body, pressure line connection, and return hose connection
• Verify proper belt tension - should not slip or squeal during operation
• Confirm power steering fluid is at proper level on dipstick when engine is at operating temperature
• Road test vehicle and verify normal steering effort and no unusual noises during turns

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