JonnyO78

I searched a bit and figured that a single dedicated thread for this would be easier to search out than digging through the power steering threads.

The ACV on my power steering pump had failed and I attempted a number of quick fixes. I started by plugging the air hoses and between the pressure and the pipe clamps that failed fairly quickly. Then I tried melting down the plastic part of the housing; it was only nominally better and still leaking. So I busted the plastic bit apart and used JB weld to seal the valve in place. Admittedly, cutting the nut flush was probably not the best choice since it didn't leave much for the JB to hold to. That lasted about 2 days before the pressure shot the valve out completely.

So I decided to plug the valve port with a bolt. At first it was looking like a pain because I didn't know the size and pitch of the threaded stem. I went to my local NAPA and after looking at their bolts and seeing that nothing quite fit, we got it down to at least identifying the size and pitch. The valve is a M14-1.50 bolt. If you're a major gearhead, which I am not, that may instantly register with you as a common oil drain plug size, because it is. I used NAPA part # 7041361; it cost me $2 and I should never have to worry about this issue again.

AndrewRM

Cool! If you can please post some pictures when you have the chance. I'm not familiar with the ACV.

bradland

I've been down this same road with my 99 and it can be riddled with trial and tribulation. Hopefully the oil drain plug is the final fix but keep an eye on it. I tried an oil plug and it failed quickly. I finally went to Ace Hardware and found a bolt with the proper thread. It's not a common size so most retailers carrying fasteners don't sell it. It was a bit long so I had to cut it down to approx .75" long. I also used Permatex hydraulic sealant on the threads which requires the internal threads of the PS pump to be clean and dry. Like I said hopefully your issue is fixed but if not these tips might help....

JonnyO78

Like I said, it's an M14-1.50. That is kind of an odd size, and most places don't carry bolts that size. Was your oil plug the proper M14-1.50? I think I kinda lucked out that the plug I located was the right size, thread pitch, shape and length. Mainly shape and length. A lot of the oil drain plugs aren't shaped correctly for this application. The NAPA part # 7041361 was perfect in all ways! Snugged it right in and I've been and will continue to keep an eye on it.

Here's some pics for reference:

The infamous power steering air control valve. It's a M14-1.50 thread with a 17mm head size.

Exploded view of power steering pump for ACV location.

NAPA part # 7041361 Oil Drain Plug Standard M14-1.50, Head Size 17mm

oldskewel

iTrader: (1)

M14-1.5 is the standard size for most Honda and Acura engine oil drain plugs.

Sometimes stores stock drain plugs as if they are different items from regular bolts, so if you go in and ask for an M14-1.5 they'll say it's a special order thing. But if you ask for a Honda engine oil drain plug, they've got plenty on the rack over on the wall.

JonnyO78

That's exactly what happened at NAPA and then I called another store and the clerk says "that sounds like an oil plug. I have one here." So I went back inside and the clerk was like "duh. Why didn't I think of that."