Power Steering Pump Replacement

Overview

This procedure guides you through replacing the power steering pump on a Porsche 944 with a 16v engine. The power steering system is critical for easy steering, and a failing pump or leaking hoses can reduce performance or cause damage. This guide focuses on the 16v engine variant, addressing common issues like hose leaks and pump failure, ensuring your steering stays smooth and reliable.

Pink and blue text represents links to additional resources, tools, parts, and partner websites.

Tools Required

• Metric wrench set (including 13mm wrench for pump bolts)
• Metric socket set
• Jack stands
• Floor jack
• Flathead screwdriver (for hose clamps)
• Hammer (for mounting clip adjustment)

Parts Required

• Power steering pump (944 347 011 03)
• Short hose (#26) (944 347 435 01)
• Long hose (#39) (944 347 437 02)
• Power steering reservoir (944 347 017 03, if replacing)
• ATF Dexron fluid (as specified in the Porsche 944 S2 owner’s manual)
• Hose clamps (as needed)

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

1. Raise the front of the Porsche 944 using a floor jack and secure it on jack stands.
2. Remove the lower plastic splash guards under the engine to access the bottom half of the 16v engine. Use a flathead screwdriver or appropriate wrench to remove the fasteners.
3. Remove the right front plastic inner fender cover for better access to the power steering components.

Step 2: Drain and Disconnect the Pump

4. Locate the short hose (#26) connected to the power steering pump. Remove its clamp using a flathead screwdriver and be ready to catch the ATF fluid that drains out with a container.
5. Loosen the two pump pivot bolts (13mm wrench) attaching the pump to the engine block.
6. Loosen the pump side of the belt tensioning bracket, then slide the pump belt off the pulley.

Step 3: Remove the Reservoir and Hoses

7. Once the ATF has drained, loosen the two clamps on the power steering reservoir using a flathead screwdriver.
8. Disconnect the short hose (#26) and long hose (#39) from the reservoir. Remove the reservoir from the car.
9. Clean the reservoir thoroughly with mineral spirits, followed by soap and water, then rinse with hot water. Let it dry completely before reinstalling.
10. Fish out the long hose (#39) and short hose (#26) from the engine bay, removing all mounting clamps you find along the way.

Step 4: Remove and Prepare the Pump

11. Fully remove the two pump pivot bolts and swing the pump down to detach it from the engine.
12. Transfer any reusable parts (e.g., pulley or fittings) from the old pump to the new pump (944 347 011 03).

Step 5: Install New Hoses and Pump

13. Install the new long hose (944 347 437 02) first, as it’s trickier to position. Secure it with hose clamps and reattach any mounting clamps you removed.
14. Install the new short hose (944 347 435 01) and secure it with clamps.
15. Mount the new pump to the engine block using the pivot bolts. Tighten the bolts, especially bolt #8, to 20 Nm (15 ft-lbs) to prevent fluid leaks.

Step 6: Reassemble and Tension the System

16. Connect both hoses to the pump and reservoir, leaving them loose for now to allow wiggle room.
17. Reinstall the pump belt and adjust the tensioner until there’s a 6mm (1/4 inch) deflection in the belt when pressed.
18. Tighten all hose clamps and mounting clamps, including those on the reservoir, then secure the reservoir back in place.

Step 7: Refill and Test the System

19. Fill the reservoir with ATF Dexron fluid as specified in the Porsche 944 owner’s manual.
20. Start the engine and let it idle. Watch the fluid level drop and add more ATF as needed.
21. While idling, turn the steering wheel fully left and right several times to bleed air from the system. Add fluid as necessary.
22. Check all connections for leaks. Tighten clamps if any leaks appear.

Step 8: Final Checks and Reassembly

23. Lower the car so the front wheels touch the ground, adding weight to the suspension.
24. Turn the steering wheel left and right again to stress the system slightly.
25. Raise the car again and inspect for leaks under load. Tighten clamps if needed.
26. Reinstall the right front inner fender cover and lower splash guards.

Post Procedure Checklist

• Check for leaks at all hose connections and the pump.
• Ensure the power steering fluid level is stable and topped off.
• Verify the pump belt tension allows a 6mm (1/4 inch) deflection.
• Test steering feel for smoothness and responsiveness.

Sources

• Clark’s Garage
• Pelican Parts
• Porsche 944 Workshop Manual, Volume 1
• Youtube