How to Change Power Steering Pump in a Pontiac Grand Am
by Dan Ferrell
Internal failure of power steering pump components or cracks on the pump case itself may lead to issues with driving. It is almost impossible to service a pump in such cases unless you have specialized equipment. However, following these steps, you will be able to change the power steering pump on your Pontiac Grand Am. The procedure applies to the 2004, 2.2, 2.4 and 3.4L engine models. Other models are similar.
Step 1
Disable the air bag system if your Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with it. Make sure the front wheels are pointing ahead to the front of the car and the ignition switch is in the OFF position. Remove all the fuses related to the air bag system--consult your vehicle service manual if necessary. Wait a couple of minutes before you begin working on the power steering system.
Step 2
Remove the air cleaner and duct from the top of the engine compartment and the evaporative emission-EVAP-canister purge solenoid valve if your model is equipped with one. You may use a wrench or ratchet and socket to remove the air cleaner and EVAP solenoid valve.
Step 3
Remove the upper engine mount and the drive belt if you have a 3.4L engine. Use the appropriate wrench size or ratchet and socket. Make sure to support the engine with a floor jack once you have removed the engine mount.
Step 4
Place a catch pan on the floor directly underneath the steering pump. Disconnect the hoses by loosening the clamps. You'll need a regular screwdriver, Phillips screwdriver or ratchet and socket. Remove the mounting bolts from the power steering pump using a wrench or ratchet and socket.
Step 5
Lift the steering pump off the engine compartment by hand.
Step 6
Set the new power steering pump in place by hand, install the mounting bolts and torque to 19-foot lbs (26 Nm). Install the hoses on the pump, connect the EVAP purge solenoid valve, upper air cleaner assembly and duct.
Step 7
Torque the pump mounting bolts to 25 foot lbs. (34 Nm) if you have a 3.4L engine; install the drive belt and upper engine mount. Remove the floor jack from underneath the engine.
Step 8
Fill the pump with power steering fluid using a funnel if necessary and bleed the system. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel completely from side to side; check the steering fluid frequently and add as needed until you purge the air from the system.
Tips
- Consult your owner's manual or vehicles service manual to identify and locate components. You can buy one at most auto parts stores or consult one for free at most public libraries.
Things You'll Need
- Wrench set Ratchet and socket set Floor jack Screwdriver Phillips screwdriver Power steering pump
Warnings
- Failure to disable the air bag system in your vehicle may trigger an impact sensor as you work around the power steering system in the engine compartment and accidentally deploy the air bags, which may cause personal injuries.
Writer Bio
Since 2003 Dan Ferrell has contributed general and consumer-oriented news to television and the Web. His work has appeared in Texas, New Mexico and Miami and on various websites. Ferrell is a certified automation and control technician from the Advanced Technology Center in El Paso, Texas.
