32 41 009 Checking function of power steering vane pump

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 BMW 645Ci and 2004 BMW 645Ci. 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 37 10 001 INITIAL OPERATION WITH TEST RUN OF 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) or 32 41 060 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING VANE PUMP FOR POWER STEERING (N62) .

Version with Dynamic Drive only:

NOTE:

Pressure line to valve block (Dynamic Drive)
Pressure line to power steering gear
Suction line from fluid reservoir

Fig 1: Identifying Dynamic Drive Assembly Component
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Connecting special tool:

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

Connection, vane pump
Connection, power steering gear

Fig 2: Identifying Special Tool 32 4 000

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Checking pump pressure:

Close valve (A).
Open valve (B).

Fig 3: Identifying valves (A) And (B)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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%.

Check belt tension if the nominal pressure is undershot by more than 10%. Replace vane pump if belt tension is OK.