Powersteering pump problem?
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Senior User
Joined: Jan 2011
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Powersteering pump problem?
Unfortunately because of the weather, the truck hasn't been used as much but recently I went to drive it and something didn't seem good at all. When I would turn the wheel to the left, the power steering pump seemed to be grinding... it was like it doesn't want to turn to the left. When I do turn left, it makes the engine really sound like it has to push harder it seems like. I'm not sure if it is as easy as replacing the pump or whether there would be another problem. Could someone please give me some guidance before I throw more money into it. The fluid level is perfectly fine and the truck runs great for the most part when the wheel isn't being turned at all.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 1,739
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From: Vale, NC
In my limited experience the PS pump is going to have issues if it is going out regardless of which way you turn the wheel. Just from your description, I would maybe jack up the front and see if anything is loose or if the ball joints seem worn. It seems odd that it would only be failing in one turning direction. Just my guess though.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 1,414
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From: Thornhill , Ontario
What does perfectly fine mean ? When was it changed last ? I agree with above post BUT ..If you have not flushed the system , you might have toasted the pump.....are you using synthetic ATF ? PS pumps NEVER fail ....unless you do not change the fluid every 2 to 3 years...Kinda like Brakes.....
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Ball joints are brand new, and linkage... I haven't ever had to do anything with the pump except when I had a PS line break and then I just had to flush it and replace with regular dex/merc I believe, the red stuff. It does look to be leaking more than ive ever noticed on the front face of the pump anyhow, but not enough to pool on the concrete. And are u sure, bec ive heard these PS pumps tend to wear out pretty regularly.
Posting Guru
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 1,647
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From: Exton, PA
I would agree with Nate. if the pump is going/gone, its going to be hard to steer in both directions. if only one direction is problematic, the issue has to be in the gearbox itself or in the linkage somewhere along the way. my personal feeling is gearbox...
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Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Feb 2008
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I had a similar issue on my old 97. There may be a slim possibility you have air in the system somewhere if you turn all the way left and hold it on the steering stops it'll bypass and purge any air out, give that a try a couple times.. Also a stiff u joint can do funny things to steering feel as well...
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Thread Starter
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Senior User
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Well every u joint is brand new, and how would u check the gearbox? The only way I though of would be take it to a shop but I don't want to! I will try putting it to the stops on the left and try to get air out but if that fails what is next?
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Feb 2008
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Well, I was just referring to the drag link on the pitman arm. I was saying pop that off w a tie rod fork and just see how the steering box feels by it self. If it turns no prob you could then pop off the tie rod that connects the knuckles and check those.. Tho I suspect you won't have to go that far seeing as how it turns right w/out a problem... Just a thought... You could try removing the serpentine belt from the pump too and go lock to lock w the front end off the ground eliminating the Hyd portion of the system...