Steering System: Pump: Description

The power steering pump for vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engine:

• The power steering pump is a vane-type pump.
• The flow control orifice is part of the high pressure line fitting.
• The pressure relief valve inside the flow control valve limits the pump pressure.
• The pump internal parts operate submerged in fluid.
• The reservoir is remote and is attached to the body behind the engine coolant reservoir.
• The power steering pump is timing belt driven.
• The power steering pump is connected to the steering gear by the pressure and return hoses.
• Oil cooler (located under the RH side fender splash shield).

The power steering pump for vehicles equipped with 3.6L gasoline engine:

• Hydraulic pressure for operation of the power steering gear is provided by a droop-flow type power steering pump.
• The pump's output characteristic is called droop-flow because output decreases with speed.
• The pump provides assistance consistent with demand.
• It provides less assistance at highway speeds to enhance directional stability and control, while providing more assistance for steering ease in avoidance and parking maneuvers.
• The pump also responds to increases in system back pressure (such as when the vehicle negotiates a sharp turn) by raising the pump flow rate.
• The belt driven power steering pump is mounted to the rear of the engine. The pulley can be serviced separately from the pump if damaged.