Power Steering Pump Overhaul


*Introduction
Removal
Power Steering Pump Disassembly
Power Steering Pump Reassembly
Alternator Disassembly and Reassembly
Installation
Bleeding and Finishing Up

Time: a weekend
Difficulty: moderate
Cost: $32 parts

I assume you have some basic car knowledge – that you can do things like change the oil filter and spark plugs. I will also assume you have basic hand tools, like metric sockets and wrenches, screw drivers, pliers, adjustable wrench, things like that. Also, you should have a good place to work, where you can spread things out and make a mess. If you live in a condo, this may not be possible.

When I say “the Manual,” I mean the factory shop manual. If you don’t have or want to get one, you can download the information from techinfo.toyota.com for $10. It isn’t necessary, but illustrations and more detailed technical information is included.

Special tools needed:
The Manual says you need a press, but you don’t. You just need a BFH and a piece of rubber to act as a cushion. A BFH is a big fuckin’ hammer – a 3-5 pound maul. An old rubber sanding block or even a piece of big rubber hose will work as a cushion. The idea is to soften the blow of the hammer.
You will need a slide hammer to extract the shaft. If you don’t want to pay for the “Special Service Tool” from Toyota lexus.spx.com, you can do what I did and make one from a dent puller. Home made slide hammer
Snap ring pliers. If you have an old pair of needle nose pliers you can grind down, go ahead, but decent snap ring pliers with various tips cost $10-15.
Cheater bar — a long piece of metal or pipe to give you leverage when loosening tight bolts.
A piece of soft metal (copper, brass, aluminum).
Bench vice.
Jack stands or blocks. It is okay to use ramps, but I prefer jack stands as they will provide much more room.

Parts needed:
Vane pump gasket kit, part # 04446-24012
High pressure gasket, part # 44327-30040
Preferred vendor: Park Place Lexus
Dexron (PS fluid)

Supplies needed:
A few wood blocks, 2x4 size is fine.
Bags or small cans to put parts in to keep track of them.
A large pan to catch all the fluid that will come out.
Medium size rubber cap.
Sawdust, cat litter, or something else to absorb the spills.
Plenty of paper towels.
Hand cleaner.
Carburetor cleaner (or mineral spirits).
Brake parts cleaner (or alcohol). This acts as a rinse and dryer.
Old tooth brush or other small brush.
Cotton swabs.
Case of beer.
Appropriate cuss words.

Ready to get greasy? Then let’s get started!
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