Below is the correct procedure for bleeding/refilling the steering hydraulic system from the Holden Maintenance CD:
CAUTIONARY NOTES:
1. If the fluid level is low in the fluid reservoir, air will be drawn in and mixed with the fluid in small bubbles. If the pump is allowed to continue operation, an increasing amount of air will be drawn into the system, causing the
fluid volume to increase to a point where the reservoir will overflow. Sudden releases in pressure that will occur when the steering is suddenly taken off a 'full lock' condition, will cause dramatic eruptions of fluid from the
reservoir. The separation of air entrapped under these conditions will be extremely difficult to remove and may take several days.
2. If the steering rack assembly requires replacement, a large volume of air will be required to be purged, which means that the reservoir fluid level will fall rapidly when the engine is started.
3. During bleeding, it is important that the front wheels are clear of the ground and that the steering is not held forcibly against the steering stops.
BLEEDING/REFILLING PROCEDURE
1. Raise front of vehicle and place on safety stands.
2. With engine not running, add fluid to reservoir to the maximum mark (or greater, if it is known that the steering gear is empty).
3. Start engine and allow to run for only 2-3 seconds. Do not turn the steering wheel at this point.
4. Continue with Steps 2 and 3 until the fluid level remains constant.
5. Start and run the engine at idle speed, turning the steering wheel from lock to lock, without holding at the full lock positions (this will build up high pressures, atomising any entrapped air). Repeat this procedure from six to eight times. Stop the engine, check the fluid level and top up to the maximum level, as required.
6. Start and run the engine at idle speed. Again turn the steering wheel from lock to lock but now slowly build up the pressure levels by holding against the full lock position from 1-2 seconds. Repeat this procedure from four
to six times. Stop the engine and top up the fluid level to the maximum mark, as required.
NOTE:
While the majority of entrapped air will be removed by the above process, a small amount may remain, which can only be removed by alternate circulation and settling of the fluid for a prolonged period. This is usually achieved automatically after two to three days, with daily driving and settling overnight.
7. Turn the steering wheel to the straight ahead position, lower vehicle to the ground and turn ignition 'OFF'.