Before You Begin:
* Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent electrical shocks.
* Gather Tools: You'll need various tools including wrenches (metric), sockets, a power steering pump pulley puller, a fluid catch pan, new power steering fluid, and possibly a torque wrench. Consult a repair manual for the specific tools and torque specifications.
* Repair Manual: A Haynes or Chilton repair manual for your specific year and model Malibu is crucial. It will provide detailed instructions, diagrams, and torque specifications.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Drain Power Steering Fluid: Locate the power steering fluid reservoir and carefully drain the fluid into a catch pan.
2. Remove the Serpentine Belt: Use a serpentine belt removal tool or carefully route the belt off the pulleys. Make sure you note the routing to put it back correctly.
3. Remove the Power Steering Pump Pulley: This usually requires a special pulley puller. This is a tricky step and requires careful attention to avoid damage.
4. Disconnect Power Steering Lines: Carefully disconnect the high-pressure and low-pressure lines from the pump. Be prepared for some fluid to leak out. You may want to use rags to absorb any spills. Note which line goes where.
5. Remove the Power Steering Pump Mounting Bolts: Carefully remove the bolts holding the pump to the engine. The pump might be a bit stubborn.
6. Install the New Power Steering Pump: Carefully install the new power steering pump, ensuring it's properly aligned. Tighten the mounting bolts to the specifications in your repair manual.
7. Reconnect Power Steering Lines: Carefully reconnect the high-pressure and low-pressure lines, making sure they're securely attached.
8. Install the Power Steering Pump Pulley: Install the pulley and tighten it according to the specifications in your repair manual.
9. Install the Serpentine Belt: Carefully route the serpentine belt back onto the pulleys according to the routing diagram.
10. Fill Power Steering Fluid Reservoir: Add the correct type and amount of power steering fluid. Check your owner's manual for the specific type.
11. Bleed the Power Steering System: Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times to bleed the air out of the system. Check the fluid level and add more if necessary.
12. Check for Leaks: Inspect all connections for leaks.
Important Considerations:
* Power Steering Fluid: Use the correct type of power steering fluid specified by your owner's manual. Using the wrong fluid can damage the pump and other components.
* Torque Specifications: Using the correct torque specifications is crucial to avoid damaging the pump or its mounting points.
* Professional Help: If you are not comfortable with these steps, take your car to a qualified mechanic. Improper repair can lead to serious damage and potentially costly repairs.
This is a simplified overview. Always refer to a repair manual specific to your 1999 Chevy Malibu for detailed instructions and diagrams. Failure to follow the correct procedure can result in damage to your vehicle and personal injury.
