power steering pump? or power steering gear?

[Mathematicus]

I recently purchased a 2000 F250 7.3L and I am having some trouble diagnosing a problem. At low speeds it is quite difficult to turn and makes a small whining sound. At first, I was sure that the power steering pump was bad, but now I am not so certain. I started it up in the driveway, opened the hood, and had someone turn the wheel to see if I noticed anything else going on. When the wheel is turning, it looks like the cap on the power steering reservoir is trying to come off. It looks like there is pressure building up in the pump. I was thinking that this may have something to do with the power steering gear box. Any advice on where to start? Or what else to look for to further diagnose the problem? Thanks.

[torkum]

Sounds like the lines or the pump is clogged. I'd break everything down and do a good flush [gear box, pump, and lines].

[torkum]

Another thought, if you need parts or help with steering box this is a contact
Red-Head Steering Gears, Seattle WA - Red-Head Steering Gears Home

[jdecker88]

Change out the PS pump fluid with some syn. I will sell you some Schaeffers ATF to put in there if you want Garth give me a bit and I will find the way you flush the PS pump

[Mathematicus]

i did a lazy man's flush of the PS pump and just ran new synthetic fluid through it about 5-6 times, emptying the reservoir in between. This helped quite a bit. I think I may go ahead and replace the pump anyway though.

[Neal 97 250]

Whenever you want to do this Garth just bring it by. We can knock it out pretty quick.
Have you asked the SD guys this question? They may have some more input possibley.

[Mathematicus]

i posted the same question in the SD forum, and that is where i got the idea to flush the new fluid through it. i will let you know about the pump installation. i still need to talk to the guy at the dealership and see what he will cover.