32 41 009 Checking function of power steering vane pump

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 BMW 545i and 2004 BMW 545i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special Tools Required:

32 4 000

IMPORTANT: Prior to this check, first check all hose connections, the vane pump and the power steering gear for leaks. Adhere to the utmost cleanliness. Do not allow any dirt to enter the hydraulic system.

After installation:

Fill and bleed hydraulic system. Refer to 32 13 006 BLEEDING POWER STEERING UNIT .
Check pipe connections for leaks
Version with Dynamic Drive: If necessary, carry out initial operation for Dynamic Drive. Refer to INITIALIZING DYNAMIC DRIVE .

Necessary Preliminary Tasks:

Draw off and dispose off hydraulic fluid from fluid reservoir.
Observe country-specific waste-disposal regulations.
Remove front assembly underside protection. Refer to 51 47 490 REMOVING AND INSTALLING / REPLACING FRONT UNDERBODY PROTECTION .
Disconnect pressure line from vane pump. Refer to 32 41 033 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING POWER STEERING PUMP FOR POWER STEERING GEAR WITH ACTIVE FRONT STEERING (N62) , 32 41 037 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING POWER STEERING PUMP FOR POWER STEERING GEAR WITH DYNAMIC DRIVE (N62) , 32 41 060 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING VANE PUMP FOR POWER STEERING (N62, N62 TU) , and TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .

Version with Dynamic Drive only:

Fig 1: Identifying Pressure Lines

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Connecting special tool:

Connect special tool 32 4 000 (refer to 32 41... INSTRUCTIONS FOR USING SPECIAL TOOL 32 4 000 ) with new sealing rings to vane pump and pressure line.

Connection, vane pump.
Connection, power steering gear.

Fig 2: View Of Special Tool 32 4 000
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Checking Pump Pressure:

Close valve (A).
Open valve (B).
Fill and bleed hydraulic system. Refer to 32 13 006 BLEEDING POWER STEERING UNIT .
Start engine.
Heat hydraulic fluid to approx. 50° C by moving steering wheel at increased engine speed.
Close valve (B) for max. 10 secs. and read off pressure.
Compare measured pressure with specified nominal pressure.
Replace vane pump if the nominal pressure is exceeded by more than 10 %. Refer to 32 41 033 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING POWER STEERING PUMP FOR POWER STEERING GEAR WITH ACTIVE FRONT STEERING (N62) , 32 41 037 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING POWER STEERING PUMP FOR POWER STEERING GEAR WITH DYNAMIC DRIVE (N62) , and 32 41 060 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING VANE PUMP FOR POWER STEERING (N62) .

Check belt tension if the nominal pressure is undershot by more than 10 %. Replace vane pump if belt tension is OK. Refer to 32 41 033 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING POWER STEERING PUMP FOR POWER STEERING GEAR WITH ACTIVE FRONT STEERING (N62) , 32 41 037 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING POWER STEERING PUMP FOR POWER STEERING GEAR WITH DYNAMIC DRIVE (N62) , and 32 41 060 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING VANE PUMP FOR POWER STEERING (N62) .

Fig 3: Checking Pump Pressure Using Special Tool
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.