#1  
Old 12-10-2011, 12:10 PM
LBGSHI's Avatar
LBGSHI
LBGSHI is offline
New User
Join Date: Sep 2011
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
1987 F150 Water Pump and Power Steering Pump Replacement

Since the last batch of repairs, the '87's been running great for a few months, but it seems the recent cold snap has taken its toll on the above two parts.

The temp dropped to freezing outside, and suddenly the power steering pump makes a combination whining/creaking noise when turning (also, the hoses actually visibly wiggle when the wheel is turned a few inches), and the water pump seems to be leaking coolant directly where it seals.

What's interesting is that both of these issues stop after the engine has sufficiently warmed up. Would I be incorrect in assuming that metal (and I suppose rubber) are contracting in the cold, and expanding back to within tolerance once warmed up? In any case, I think that means these two were on their last legs already, so it's probably time to replace them.

Is there anything I should know before doing either of these? I have a Chilton's that should guide me through anything not obvious by simple observation, but a link to a DIY would still always be appreciated. Finally, is there any last-minute troubleshooting I should perform to ensure I really need to replace these two, and not just a related part? The pumps are fairly inexpensive (under $40 for each), and it doesn't seem like they'll be difficult to replace, so I'm not too unhappy if that's what needs to be done.

Thanks in advance, guys.