1997 Nissan Altima Power Steering

JBC2009

MEMBER
1997 NISSAN ALTIMA
4 CYL
FWD
MANUAL
203,000 MILES

AAA just diagnosed my car and said I need my power steering pump replaced. I got a second opinion and received the same results. I was told to replace the idler pulley also.

My questions are: how do I go about replacing the pump, pulley, and hoses (although I imagine hoses are fairly simple). How do I find out if the pulley actually needs replacing? What tools will I need to do this job? And where online can I find some step by step instructions on how to do this? I can't find a repair manual in any auto shops in my city.

-Ben Cimorelli

1 Reply

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
41,814 POSTS

Hi Ben,

Thank you for the donation.

Repair manual usually do not cover such work and our database does not have mush to offer as well.

If the pulley is moving in a wavy pattern or has damaged edges, then it should be replaced. Other than that there is no necessity to do so.

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
POWER STEERING PUMP
Removal

1. If removing pulley, loosen power steering pump pulley nut. Loosen pump adjusting bolts, and remove pump drive belt. Note angle of pressure hose installation on power steering pump.

2. Disconnect high pressure hose from power steering pump. Drain fluid. Remove suction line from pump. Remove pump retaining bolts and pump.

Installation

1. To install, reverse removal procedure. Replace all sealing washers and "O" rings. Lubricate all sealing washers and "O" rings with ATF before installation.

2. Tighten hose connector bolts to specification. Adjust belt tension. Fill and bleed system.