Your Selected Vehicle
Parts for your 1997 Daihatsu Gran move-Power steering pump
Explore 4WD & Adventure
1997 Daihatsu Gran Move Power Steering Pump — What It Does and How to Look After It
Based on technical references including the Daihatsu Pyzar/Gran Move Workshop Manual (Steering – Power Steering section), the Daihatsu Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for G301/G303 chassis, and aftermarket catalogues such as Autodata and the Gates Australia belt listings, the 1997 Daihatsu Gran Move is fitted with a belt‑driven hydraulic power steering pump on its HC‑EJ/HD‑EP engines. So yes — a power-steering pump is relevant on this model.
The pump’s job is straightforward but crucial: it pressurises steering fluid so the rack can assist turning, making low‑speed manoeuvres light and predictable. When it’s healthy, steering feels smooth, quiet, and consistent. When it’s not, you’ll notice heaviness at the wheel, groans or whines, or fluid weeping from hoses and pump seals.
As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to give the system a once‑over. Check the drive belt for cracks, glazing, and tension, inspect the pump body and hose unions for dampness, and make sure the fluid is at the correct level and colour. Daihatsu specifies ATF (Dexron II/III) as the power steering fluid for this era — top up only with the correct ATF and keep the reservoir clean.
- Early warning signs: heaviness at parking speeds, pulsing or shudder when turning, a high‑pitched whine that rises with engine revs, metallic sparkle in fluid, or fluid loss.
- Quick care tips: keep the belt properly tensioned, don’t hold full lock for long periods, and flush the fluid if it’s dark, burnt‑smelling, or contaminated.
If replacement is on the cards, it’s a straightforward job for a competent home spanner‑spinner, but tidy technique matters to protect the rack and the new pump.
- Disconnect the battery, raise the front safely, and catch old ATF in a suitable container.
- Release belt tension and remove the pump belt.
- Crack the pressure and return lines (replace copper washers/O‑rings as required).
- Swap the pump, align brackets, and set correct belt tension.
- Refill with fresh ATF Dexron II/III, bleed by turning lock‑to‑lock with the engine running, topping up as bubbles clear.
For longevity, consider a fluid service every 40,000–60,000 km or 3–4 years, check the belt at each oil change, and renew any sweating hoses before they become proper leaks. Look after the pump and the Gran Move’s steering will stay light, quiet, and dependable around town and out on country roads alike.
Popular questions about the 1997 Daihatsu Gran Move power steering pump
What fluid should be used in the Gran Move’s power steering system?
For this generation, Daihatsu specifies ATF to Dexron II or Dexron III standards. Mixing fluids can cause seal swell or noise, so stick to Dexron II/III ATF only. If the existing fluid looks contaminated, plan a full flush rather than just topping up.
How can someone tell if the pump or the belt is causing steering noise?
A slipping or glazed belt usually squeals on cold start or when turning at idle, and the noise changes as belt tension changes. A failing pump tends to whine or groan with steering load regardless of belt condition, and may coincide with aerated or dark fluid and heavier steering effort.
Is replacement better than rebuilding the original pump?
Rebuild kits can work if the pump body is in good nick and the shaft isn’t scored, but many owners opt for a quality reman or new unit to save time and ensure reliability. If the system has been run low on fluid, a replacement plus a thorough flush is usually the safer bet.
