Fluid Pressure Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mazda 6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Assemble the SSTs as shown in the figure.

Fig 1: Inspecting Fluid Pressure
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Disconnect the pressure pipe from the oil pump, and connect the SSTs .
Tightening torque

38-51 N.m {3.9-5.2 kgf.m, 29-37 ft.lbf}

Fig 2: Disconnecting Pressure Pipe From Oil Pump, And Connecting SST
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Bleed the air from the system. (See AIR BLEEDING .)
Open the gauge valve fully.
Start the engine and turn the steering wheel fully left and right to raise the fluid temperature to 50-- 60 °C {122-140 °F}.
Close the gauge valve completely.
Increase the engine speed to 1,000-1,500 rpm and measure the fluid pressure generated by the oil pump.
- If the pressure is not within the specification, repair or replace the oil pump component.
  
  Fig 3: Measuring Fluid Pressure Generated By Oil Pump
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
CAUTION:
- If the valve is left closed for more than 5 seconds, the fluid temperature will rise excessively and adversely affect the oil pump.
Oil pump fluid pressure

L3: 10.80-11.29 MPa {110.2-115.2 kgf/cm ² ,1567-1637 psi}

AJ: 11.31-11.80 MPa {115.4-120.3 kgf/cm ² ,1640-1711 psi}
Open the gauge valve fully and increase the engine speed to 1,000-1,500 rpm.
Turn the steering wheel fully to the left and right, then measure the fluid pressure generated at the gear housing.
- If the pressure is not within the specification, repair or replace the steering gear component.
  
  Fig 4: Measuring Fluid Pressure Generated At Gear Housing
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
CAUTION:
- If the steering wheel is kept in the fully turned position for more than 5 seconds, the fluid temperature will rise excessively and adversely affect the oil pump.
Gear housing fluid pressure

L3: 10.80-11.29 MPa {110.2-115.2 kgf/cm ² , 1567-1637 psi}

AJ: 11.31-11.80 MPa {115.4-120.3 kgf/cm ² ,1640-1711 psi}
Remove the SSTs. Install and tighten the pressure pipe to the specified torque.
Tightening torque

38-51 N.m {3.9-5.2 kgf.m, 29-37 ft.lbf}
Bleed the air from the system.