Step 2 - Check Steering Fluid Pressure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Toyota Avalon. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Disconnect the pressure feed tube. See STEP 3 - DISCONNECT PRESSURE FEED TUBES .

NOTE: Check that the valve of the SST is in the open position.

Fig 1: Connecting SST To Power Steering System

Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002

Connect SST to pressure feed tubes, as shown in the illustration below. SST 09640-10010 (09641-01010, 09641-01030, 09641-01060).
Bleed the power steering system. See BLEEDING .
Start the engine and run it at idle.
Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times to boost fluid temperature.
Fluid temperature: 80°C (176 °F) .

NOTE:

Do not keep the valve closed for more than 10 seconds.
Do not let the fluid temperature become too high.

Fig 2: Diagramming Power Steering Fluid Pressure Test With Valve Closed

Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002

With the engine idling, close the valve of the SST and observe the reading on the SST.
Minimum fluid pressure: 7,845 kPa (80 kgf/cm2, 1,138 psi).
With the engine idling, open the valve fully.

CAUTION: Do not turn the steering wheel.

Fig 3: Diagramming Power Steering Fluid Pressure Test With Valve Open - Wheels Centered

Measure the fluid pressure at engine speeds of 1,000 RPM and 3,000 RPM.
Difference fluid pressure: 490 kPa (5 kgf/cm2, 71 psi) or less.

CAUTION:

Do not maintain lock position for more than 10 seconds.
Do not let the fluid temperature become too high.

Fig 4: Diagramming Power Steering Fluid Pressure Test With Valve Open - Wheels At Full Lock Position

With the engine idling and valve fully opened, turn the steering wheel to full lock.
Minimum fluid pressure: 7,845 kPa (80 kgf/cm2, 1,138 psi).
Disconnect the SST. SST 09640-10010 (09641-01010, 09641-01030, 09641-01060).
Connect the pressure feed tube. See STEP 1 - INSTALL PRESSURE FEED TUBE .
Bleed the power steering system. See BLEEDING .