Power Steering Pump Replacement – 2.5L NA

Overview

This procedure outlines the steps to replace the power steering pump on all Porsche 944 variants with an 8-valve engine configuration. The power steering pump is critical for providing hydraulic assistance to the steering system, ensuring smooth and responsive handling. Over time, the pump or its associated hoses may leak, requiring replacement. This guide is tailored for DIY enthusiasts with mechanical experience and covers both pre-1985.5 (1983–1985.5) and 1985.5 onwards (1986–1988) variants of the Porsche 944 8-valve variants.

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Tools Required

• Metric wrench set (10mm–19mm, equivalent to 3/8 inch–3/4 inch)
• Metric socket set (10mm–19mm, equivalent to 3/8 inch–3/4 inch)
• 13mm wrench (1/2 inch)
• Jack stands
• Floor jack
• Flathead screwdriver (for hose clamps)
• Hammer (light-duty, for mounting clips)
• Drain pan (to catch ATF)
• Mineral spirits (for cleaning reservoir)
• Soap and hot water (for cleaning reservoir)
• Torque wrench (capable of 20–50 Nm, or 15–37 ft-lbs)

Parts Required

• Power steering pump, 944 347 021 03
• Short hose (#26), 944 347 451 00
• Long hose (#39), 944 347 449 00
• Power steering reservoir (if replacing), 944 347 017 02
• ATF Dexron II or III (approximately 1–2 liters)
• Hose clamps (as needed, OEM-style recommended)

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

1. Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Raise the front of the vehicle using a floor jack and secure it with jack stands.
3. Remove the lower plastic splash guards to access the bottom of the engine. Use a 10mm (3/8 inch) socket or wrench to remove the bolts.
4. Remove the right front plastic inner fender cover to improve access to the power steering components. Use a 10mm (3/8 inch) socket or wrench to remove the fasteners.

Step 2: Drain the Power Steering Fluid

5. Place a drain pan under the power steering pump.
6. Locate the short hose (#26, 944 347 451 00) connected to the pump. Loosen the hose clamp using a flathead screwdriver and remove the hose to allow the ATF to drain into the pan.

Step 3: Remove the Power Steering Pump

7. Loosen the two pivot bolts attaching the pump to the engine using a 13mm (1/2 inch) wrench or socket. These bolts allow the pump to pivot for belt tension adjustment.
8. Locate the belt tensioning bracket on the pump side. Loosen the adjustment bolt using a 13mm (1/2 inch) wrench, then remove the power steering belt from the pump pulley.
9. Once the ATF has fully drained, loosen the two reservoir clamps using a flathead screwdriver and disconnect the short hose (#26, 944 347 451 00) and long hose (#39, 944 347 449 00) from the reservoir.
10. Remove the reservoir from the vehicle. Clean it thoroughly with mineral spirits, followed by soap and hot water, and rinse with hot water. Allow it to dry completely before reinstallation.
11. Remove the pivot bolts and swing the pump downward to remove it from the engine bay.

Step 4: Replace Hoses and Prepare the New Pump

12. Remove any reusable parts (e.g., fittings or brackets) from the old pump and transfer them to the new pump (944 347 021 03).
13. Locate and remove the long hose (#39, 944 347 449 00) and short hose (#26, 944 347 451 00) from the vehicle, noting the positions of all mounting clamps.
14. Install the new long hose (#39, 944 347 449 00) first, as it is more difficult to access. Secure it with the appropriate hose clamps and mounting clips, ensuring proper routing along the fender well.
15. Install the new short hose (#26, 944 347 451 00) and secure it with hose clamps.
16. For the mounting clip on the long hose near the fender well, gently tap it into place with a hammer if needed.

Step 5: Install the New Pump

17. Mount the new pump (944 347 021 03) to the engine using the pivot bolts. Tighten the bolts loosely to allow for belt tension adjustment.
18. Ensure bolt #8 (pump mounting bolt) is torqued to 20 Nm (15 ft-lbs) to prevent fluid leaks. Use a torque wrench for accuracy.
19. Connect the short hose (#26, 944 347 451 00) and long hose (#39, 944 347 449 00) to the pump, securing them with hose clamps.
20. Install the power steering belt and adjust the tension using the tensioning bracket. The belt should have approximately 6mm (1/4 inch) deflection when pressed firmly.
21. Tighten the pivot bolts and tensioning bracket bolts to 20 Nm (15 ft-lbs).

Step 6: Reinstall the Reservoir and Fill the System

22. Reinstall the cleaned or new reservoir (944 347 017 02) and secure it with the mounting clamps.
23. Connect the hoses to the reservoir and tighten all hose clamps securely.
24. Fill the reservoir with ATF Dexron II or III as specified in the Porsche 944 owner’s manual. Fill to the “MAX” mark on the reservoir.

Step 7: Bleed the Power Steering System

25. Start the engine and let it idle. Monitor the fluid level in the reservoir and add ATF as needed as the level drops.
26. While idling, turn the steering wheel fully left and right several times to work out any air in the system. Add fluid as necessary to maintain the “MAX” level.
27. Inspect all hose connections and the pump for leaks. Tighten clamps or bolts as needed if leaks are found.

Step 8: Test the System Under Load

28. Lower the vehicle so the front wheels are on the ground, ensuring some weight is on the tires.
29. Turn the steering wheel fully left and right several times to stress the power steering system.
30. Raise the vehicle again and inspect for leaks. Tighten any loose clamps or fittings as needed.

Step 9: Final Reassembly

31. Reinstall the right front plastic inner fender cover using a 10mm (3/8 inch) socket or wrench.
32. Reinstall the lower plastic splash guards using a 10mm (3/8 inch) socket or wrench.
33. Lower the vehicle to the ground and remove the jack stands.

Post Procedure Checklist

• Check the power steering fluid level and ensure it is at the “MAX” mark.
• Inspect all hose connections and the pump for leaks after test-driving 5 miles (8 km).
• Verify smooth steering operation with no unusual noises or resistance.
• Ensure all bolts are torqued to 20 Nm (15 ft-lbs) as specified.
• Confirm the power steering belt has approximately 6mm (1/4 inch) deflection.

Sources

• Clark’s Garage
• Pelican Parts
• Porsche 944 Workshop Manuals
• YouTube