Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safe working conditions.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the van from rolling.
* Socket wrench set (metric): Various sizes, including a breaker bar for stubborn bolts.
* Wrench set (metric): For smaller fasteners.
* Drain pan: To catch the power steering fluid.
* New power steering pump: Ensure you get the correct replacement pump for your van.
* New power steering fluid: The correct type for your van. Check your owner's manual.
* New power steering belt: It's advisable to replace the belt at the same time.
* Pliers: For disconnecting clamps and hoses.
* Torque wrench: To tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
* Shop rags or paper towels: For cleaning up spills.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Safety glasses: To protect your eyes.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Park the van on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks. Raise the front end of the van securely with the jack and support it with jack stands.
2. Drain the Power Steering Fluid: Locate the power steering fluid reservoir. Remove the cap and carefully drain the fluid into your drain pan.
3. Disconnect the Power Steering Hoses: These are usually connected to the pump with clamps. Loosen the clamps and carefully disconnect the hoses. Have a container ready to catch any remaining fluid. Mark the hoses to ensure you reinstall them correctly. Take photos if you're unsure.
4. Disconnect the Power Steering Pump Belt: Loosen the belt tensioner (usually a pulley with a bolt or other mechanism) to remove the serpentine belt. Refer to your repair manual for the specific procedure.
5. Remove the Power Steering Pump: This usually involves removing several bolts holding the pump to the engine block. Be careful not to drop any bolts into hard-to-reach places. The pump may be heavy, so have a helper if needed.
6. Install the New Power Steering Pump: Install the new pump, ensuring it's properly aligned. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
7. Reconnect the Power Steering Hoses: Carefully reconnect the power steering hoses, making sure the connections are tight and secure. Tighten the clamps.
8. Reconnect the Power Steering Pump Belt: Reinstall the serpentine belt, ensuring it's properly routed around all the pulleys. Tighten the belt tensioner.
9. Fill the Power Steering Fluid Reservoir: Add new power steering fluid to the reservoir, checking the level frequently.
10. Bleed the Power Steering System (if necessary): Some vehicles require bleeding the system to remove air bubbles. Consult your repair manual for instructions.
11. Lower the Van: Carefully lower the van from the jack stands.
12. Test the System: Start the engine and check for leaks. Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times. Check the power steering fluid level and top off if needed.
Important Considerations:
* Fluid Type: Use the correct type of power steering fluid as specified in your owner's manual. Using the wrong fluid can damage the pump and system.
* Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque. Over-tightening can strip threads or damage parts.
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1995 Chevy G20 van is highly recommended. It will provide detailed instructions, diagrams, and torque specifications.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, it's best to take your van to a qualified mechanic.
This is a complex repair with the potential for serious injury if done improperly. If you have any doubts, seek professional assistance. Your safety is paramount.
