AutoZone Car Care: How to Install the Power Steering Pump

Summary

This video provides a step-by-step guide on how to install a power steering pump and pulley, including important tips on using the correct tools and techniques to avoid damaging the parts. Key steps involve applying anti-seize compound, ensuring the pulley runs true, and safely installing hoses and fittings without cross-threading. The video emphasizes the importance of using basic hand tools, following torque specifications, and ensuring safety while working on a vehicle. It also highlights the need for proper disposal of chemicals and using the correct equipment for each task.

Takeaways

• 😀 Use anti-seize compound on the pump shaft and inside the pulley bearing to make future removal easier.
• 😀 Always use the correct tool, like a pulley installer, instead of hitting the pulley with a hammer.
• 😀 The power steering pump shaft is threaded, and the pulley installer tightens the adapter to install the pulley onto the shaft.
• 😀 After tightening the pulley, spin it to ensure it's running true; if not, loosen and adjust it to avoid damage.
• 😀 When installing power steering pump components, check that the pulley is aligned properly to avoid destruction during installation.
• 😀 When connecting hoses to the power steering rack, lubricate the O-rings before installing the fittings to avoid leakage.
• 😀 Swivel-type fittings should not be over-tightened. The torque spec is usually around 10 foot-pounds.
• 😀 Be careful when threading fittings into the rack to avoid cross-threading, as it can damage the aluminum rack.
• 😀 The power-steering return hose may need to be cut to size to fit, especially when routing it through the cooler.
• 😀 Use basic hand tools for the job, but consult AutoZone’s loaner tool program for specialty tools if needed.
• 😀 Always exercise caution when working around a running engine, as components can get extremely hot and pose safety risks.

Q & A

Why should anti-seize compound be applied to the pump shaft and pulley bearing?

Anti-seize compound is applied to make it easier to remove the parts during future disassembly, preventing them from seizing or getting stuck over time.

What is the correct tool to use when installing the pulley onto the pump shaft?

You should use a pulley installer tool instead of a hammer to avoid damaging the pulley and ensure a proper fit.

How do you ensure the pulley is installed correctly?

After tightening the adapter a couple of turns, spin the pulley to check that it's running true. If it's not aligned, loosen and adjust until it runs true.

What could happen if the pulley isn't installed true?

If the pulley isn't installed true, it may become damaged during installation, causing it to wobble or function improperly.

What should be done before installing the power steering hoses?

You should lubricate the O-rings on the hoses before installing the fittings to prevent leakage and ensure a proper seal.

Why is it important to avoid over-tightening swivel-type fittings?

Swivel-type fittings are designed to move even when tightened, so over-tightening could damage the fittings or cause leakage, as the parts are not meant to be fixed in place.

What should you avoid when threading the fittings into the power steering rack?

You should avoid cross-threading the fittings, as it can damage the aluminum rack and lead to leaks or failure.

Why is it necessary to flush the power steering system before finalizing the hose installation?

Flushing the system helps remove any debris from the cooler, ensuring that the power steering system functions properly without clogging or damage.

What is the torque specification for tightening the swivel-type fittings?

The torque specification is around 10 foot-pounds, which is relatively low and prevents over-tightening.

What safety precautions should be taken when working under the hood?

Always be cautious of hot engine components, wear safety glasses, avoid loose clothing that could get caught in moving parts, and secure the vehicle with wheel blocks and jack stands before working underneath.