Honda Power Steering Fluid replacement procedure

[youdontwannaknow]

This is the outline of the procedure in the service manual of an Acura MDX for replacing the PSF -

1. Remove the return hose from the PSF reservoir and hold it in an external container to collect old fluid.
2. Start the engine and run at idle, and keep turning the steering lock-to-lock. Shut off when fluid stops running.
3. Reconnect the return hose back to the reservoir.
4. Fill the reservoir.
5. Start the engine and turn the steering lock-to-lock to bleed air from the system.

My question is - on step#2 right after the fluid has run out and before you stop the engine, and on step#5 right after you start the engine and before the fluid goes thru the pump, wouldn't it be running with no oil at all - even if for a few seconds ? Wouldn't that hurt the pump and the ps gearbox in any way ?

 

[Chris Meutsch]

Sounds like the standard coolant change on a Honda. Cavitation, anyone?

 

[paulo57509]

IMO, running the pump for a few seconds without fluid pressure while you run around to shut the engine off wouldn't do any harm. It's still wet inside and this should provide enough lubrication for those few seconds. I would lift the front wheels off the ground so that the pump doesn't have to put out any power assist (pressure) while you turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock.

It may be better to have a helper turn the steering wheel and man the ignition while you monitor the pump output.

Same goes for refilling.

Oh yeah.....make sure to use Honda spec'ed PSF or whatever is recommended in your manual.

 

[Smoky14]

You better be quick, the minute you start the engine the reservoir will go dry. When the system pressure comes up it pumps overboard.
I've found that you can empty the steering cyl by turning the wheel with the engine off; it is in effect a manual pump.

 

[youdontwannaknow]

how about disabling the fuel pump or ignition system (by removing fuses) and just turning/keying the motor ? Just like when you'd do a compression test. That way the motor isn't turning too fast and too long after the fluid runs out.

 

[PT1]

How about my method...5 drain fills with 1 day of driving in between each over a 1 week period using a fluid extractor. Nothing to remove except the reservoir cap. Hard work pays off in the future...but lazy pays off right now..