Power Steering Service

Drain and replace power steering fluid, inspect system components, and bleed air from the power steering system to ensure proper operation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power steering fluid × 2 — Use OEM specification or equivalent ATF Dexron

Fluids

• Power steering fluid or ATF Dexron — 2 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
3. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
4. Raise front of vehicle with floor jack and support on jack stands under frame rails
5. Locate power steering pump reservoir on driver side of engine (mounted on 390 V8 block)
6. Place drain pan beneath work area to catch any spills

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove old fluid from reservoir
   Remove the power steering reservoir cap. Using a turkey baster or fluid extraction pump, remove as much old fluid as possible from the reservoir. Transfer the old fluid to the drain pan. Continue until the reservoir is as empty as possible without disconnecting hoses.
2. 2

   Disconnect return hose
   Locate the low-pressure return hose at the bottom of the power steering reservoir. This is typically the larger diameter hose with a spring clamp. Position drain pan directly under the connection point. Use pliers to compress or slide the hose clamp away from the connection point, then carefully pull the hose off the reservoir nipple. Allow remaining fluid to drain completely into the pan.
3. 3

   Flush steering gear
   With the return hose disconnected and directed into the drain pan, turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock several times. This will pump remaining old fluid from the steering gear and pump through the return line. Continue until fluid flow stops. Do not start the engine during this step.
4. 4

   Reconnect return hose
   Inspect the return hose for cracks, deterioration, or damage. Replace if necessary. Reconnect the return hose to the reservoir nipple and ensure it is fully seated. Reposition the hose clamp over the connection point and secure it tightly.
5. 5

   Fill reservoir with fresh fluid
   Using a funnel, fill the power steering reservoir with fresh power steering fluid or ATF Dexron to the FULL COLD mark on the dipstick or reservoir. The 1970 AMC power steering system typically holds approximately 1.5 to 2 quarts total capacity.
6. 6

   Bleed air from system (initial)
   With the engine still off and front wheels raised, slowly turn the steering wheel from full left to full right lock at least 10 times. This will work fluid through the system and begin displacing air. Check the reservoir level frequently and add fluid as needed to keep it at the FULL mark. The fluid level will drop as it fills the system.
7. 7

   Start engine and continue bleeding
   Start the engine and allow it to idle. Turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock 5-6 times while the engine is running. Do not hold the wheel at full lock for more than 2-3 seconds to avoid damaging the pump. Monitor the reservoir and add fluid as needed to maintain proper level.
8. 8

   Check for leaks and aeration
   With the engine idling, inspect all power steering connections including pump fittings, hoses, and steering gear for signs of leakage. Observe the fluid in the reservoir; if excessive bubbles or foaming is present, continue turning the wheel slowly to purge remaining air. The fluid should appear relatively clear without heavy foaming when properly bled.
9. 9

   Final fluid level check
   Turn off the engine and allow the system to settle for 1-2 minutes. Check the fluid level with the dipstick or reservoir markings. The level should be at the FULL COLD mark when the engine is off and cold. Top off if necessary and reinstall the reservoir cap securely.

Reassembly

1. Lower vehicle from jack stands and remove wheel chocks
2. Wipe down any spilled fluid from engine bay components and frame
3. Dispose of used power steering fluid according to local environmental regulations

Verification

• Start the engine and verify smooth power steering operation with no unusual noises
• Turn steering wheel through full range of motion and confirm no whining, groaning, or cavitation sounds from the pump
• Check for any fluid leaks around all connections after test operation
• Verify fluid level is at proper FULL mark after final operation and system has reached operating temperature
• Test drive vehicle and confirm normal steering effort and no binding or noise during turns

More procedures for this vehicle