Acura TSX / Honda Accord CL. Manual — part 186

Fig. 10: Installing The P/S Joint Adapter (Pump) On The Pump Outlet

3. Connect the P/S joint adapter (hose) to the P/S pressure gauge, then connect the pump outlet hose (A) to

the P/S joint adapter (hose).

4. Install the P/S pressure gauge to the P/S joint adapter (pump).

5. Open the pressure control valve (A) fully.

2004 Acura TSX

2004 STEERING Power Steering System - TSX

Fig. 11: Opening The Pressure Control Valve Fully

6. Start the engine and let it idle.

7. Turn the steering wheel from lock-to-lock several times to warm the fluid to operating temperature at

158°F (70°C).

8. Measure steady-state fluid pressure while the engine is idling. If the pump is in good condition, the

pressure should be no more than 1,500 kPa (15 kgf/cm

2

, 214 psi). If the pressure is too high, check the

outlet hose or valve body unit (see Steering System Troubleshooting). Raise the engine speed to 3,000
RPM, and measure the fluid pressure. If the pump is in good condition, the pressure should be at least

2004 Acura TSX

2004 STEERING Power Steering System - TSX

1,500 kPa (15 kgf/cm

2

, 214 psi). If the pressure is too high, repair or replace the pump.

9. Lower the engine speed and let it idle. Close the pressure control valve gradually until the pressure gauge

needle is stable. Read the pressure.

10. Immediately open the pressure control valve fully. If the pump is in good condition and the valve is

closed, the gauge should read at least this specification:

7,850-8,550 kPa (80-87 kgf/cm

2

, 1,140-1,240 psi)

A low reading means pump output is too low for full assist. Repair or replace the pump.

FLUID LEAKAGE INSPECTION

Fig. 12: Inspecting For Fluid Leakage

FLUID REPLACEMENT

Check the reservoir (A) at regular intervals, and add the recommended fluid as necessary. Always use Honda
Power Steering Fluid. Using any other type of power steering fluid or automatic transmission fluid can cause

NOTE:

Do not keep the pressure control valve closed more than 5 seconds or the
pump could be damaged by over-heating.

2004 Acura TSX

2004 STEERING Power Steering System - TSX

increased wear and poor steering in cold weather.

System Capacity: 1.1 L (1.16 US. qt) at disassembly

Reservoir Capacity: 0.4 L (0.42 US. qt)

Fig. 13: Identifying Reservoir

1. Raise the reservoir, then disconnect the return hose (A) to drain the reservoir. Take care not to spill the

fluid on the body and parts. Wipe off and spilled fluid at once.

2004 Acura TSX

2004 STEERING Power Steering System - TSX