How-To: Replacing the Power Steering Pump on a '03 Element

[stook00]

How do Element buffs, I had the chance to change the power steering pump on a '03 Element this past weekend so I'd like to share with you guys the procedure for this repair job. So roll up those sleeves and bust out the toolbox! 1) Place a suitable container under the vehicle. 2) Drain the power steering fluid from the reservoir. 3) Remove the drive belt (A) from the pump pulley, as follows. Note: This procedure requires the use of a special Belt tension release tool, Snap-on YA9317 or equivalent tool. Move the auto-tensioner (A) with the belt tension release tool (B) in the direction shown to relieve tension from the drive belt, and remove the drive belt. Install the new belt in the reverse order of removal. **To remove the belt, move the auto-tensioner (A) with the belt tension release tool (B) in the direction shown to relieve tension from the drive belt, and remove the drive belt** 4) Cover the auto-tensioner, alternator, and A/C compressor with several shop towels to protect them from spilled power steering fluid. Disconnect the pump inlet hose (B) and the pump outlet hose (C) from the pump (D), and plug them. Take care not to spill the fluid on the body or parts. Wipe off any spilled fluid at once. Do not turn the steering wheel with the pump removed. 5) Remove the pump mounting bolts (E). 6) Cover the opening of the pump with a piece of tape to prevent foreign material from entering the pump. **shown here: driver belt (A), power steering pump inlet hose (B), outlet hose (C), power steering pump (D) and mounting bolts (E)** -Installation- 1) Connect the pump inlet hose and the pump outlet hose with a new O-ring. 2) Loosely install the pump in the pump bracket with the mounting bolts, then tighten the pump fittings securely. Warning: Do not get power steering fluid or grease on the auto-tensioner, alternator, A/C compressor, and drive belt or pulley faces. Clean off any fluid or grease before installation. 3) Install the drive belt. Make sure that the belt is properly positioned on the pulleys. 4) Tighten the pump mounting bolts to 16 ft. lbs. (22 Nm). 5) Fill the power steering fluid reservoir to the upper level line. The power steering lines diagram below may help: *diagram courtesy of hondapartsnow.com; all rights reserved

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[bucwheat]

Good write up stook,but I think you can use a ratchet to release the tension.No special tool needed if I remember right.