Power steering harder to turn after topup

Tiny
JASON_THE_SHELFER
  • MEMBER
  • SUBARU
Subaru Liberty 1994 115000miles

I just recently topped up my power steering fluid to the correct level and my car's steering has become harder and a little bit jerky. There are no unusual pump noises and my belts appear to be fine. I have checked the system for leaks and aside from slight seepage around a hose join nothing is amiss. Any help would be appreciated as this was not the result I expected to get for topping up the fluid.
Tuesday, October 30th, 2007 AT 1:57 AM

4 Replies

Tiny
SERVICE WRITER
  • MECHANIC
  • 9,123 POSTS
Did you use the correct fluid? Usually it is dextron transmission fluid that is used. Having said that I am not aware of a "liberty" model. This may be non-US?
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Tuesday, October 30th, 2007 AT 5:29 AM
Tiny
JASON_THE_SHELFER
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Yes, I used Dexron (Type 3),
Yes the liberty model is non US (i am from Australia) however I believe it is identical to the Legacy model over there
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Tuesday, October 30th, 2007 AT 6:37 AM
Tiny
SERVICE WRITER
  • MECHANIC
  • 9,123 POSTS
My guess is some air got sucked into the system. I have heard of using a GM 2.8L PS cap to make a tool for sucking the air out. You break off level check of the GM cap, Drill a 1/8" hole in the center of the cap. Then install a straight vacuum adapter. Then vacuum bleed the system.

You can try bleeding it by turning the wheels back and forth slowly 10-15 times.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Tuesday, October 30th, 2007 AT 8:08 AM
Tiny
JASON_THE_SHELFER
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Thanks for your reply, i'll give it a go and let you know
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Tuesday, October 30th, 2007 AT 2:59 PM

Please login or register to post a reply.

Sponsored links