Hydro assist issue, with air...

[Chevycrew]

So I upgraded the steering on the TrailBlazer to a PSC pump, and a heat sink cooler and remote reservoir from Low Range.

The issue seems to be air in the system. I have bled, refilled, retightened, etc. Everything I can think of.


I have noticed on my reservoir that the fluid returns in near the top. It comes in, then hits a diverter of sorts in the reservoir (basically instead of the fluid spraying straight in, it does a T)

Im wondering if the fluid returning above the level in the reservoir is helping introduce air into the system. I can see it causing bubbles, then they get swirled into the fluid.



Ideas? If this is the issue, why isnt the problem more common with this type of reservoir?

 

[UFAB]

Cycle steering with engine off like ten times. Jack up axle completely off ground when doing.

There is a baffle in the remote res can. Don't overfill. You can cycle system with cap off as well. If your cooler is above the pump and res, be sure to configure plumbing so it does not drain out when off. Sometimes air can cavatate the oil when mixed at start up.

 

[Chevycrew]

Yep, reservoir is at highest point, cycled steering, etc. Startup is fine, return fluid is bubble free for about 30 seconds then becomes foamy.


I did not have this issue with the stock pump and reservoir. (stock reservoir return line was in bottom)

Also this is not a new hydro assist setup, only the pump, cooler, and reservoir are new.

 

[J Kimmel]

consider the fluid, I had issues with regular PS fluid and switching over to a good synthetic helped with foaming and air bubbles. I run Royal Purple now, have for several years with no issues.

 

[Chevycrew]

That's my plan. But at the price of fluid I wanted to look into this issue before I dump liquid gold into the system. Mine only holds 3 quarts...

 

[Chevycrew]

Also, I have been looking into reservoirs. Seems like the cheap ones have a inlet near or at the top, while the higher end, (psc, etc) are all at the bottom, some even have a internal filter to help disperse the flow and prevent aeration.

 

[Gravy]

Hydraulic tractor transmission fluid.

I don't use even use Amsoil and it cured all my problems.

it's like $30 for a huge 3 gallon jug at any local parts store.

The reservoir idea makes sense to me also.

 

[Chevycrew]

We will see what happens this weekend, I ordered a res with a lower return fitting, and 4 quarts of redline synthetic ps fluid.

 

[Kiel]

I have 4-5 quarts of the amsoil hydraulic tractor transmission oil, I will let go for 20 bucks. Pretty much half price

 

[Chevycrew]

Redline synthetic power steering fluid and a new reservoir with the return below the fluid level did the trick.

Easy to get the air out of the system, and no foam after 10 minutes.