Power steering Noise

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Aug 8, 2003 | 07:42 PM

QuickerPickerUpper

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Power steering Noise

My power steering sounds like it has air in its fluid. Is this possible. When I turn the streering wheel you can hear the fluid pressure. It's hard to describe, but it is very noticable. Has anyone had this problem on their f150?

Aug 9, 2003 | 07:37 PM

Racerguy

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From: BC, Canada

Power steering Noise

The most common cause of power steering noise on Fords is the pump. I dont think I've heard exactly what you're describing though.

Aug 10, 2003 | 08:38 PM

QuickerPickerUpper

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Power steering Noise

Is the pump going bad or is this just inherent with Ford power steering. It is hard to discribe. It's kind of a fluid noise that can be heard as you turn the wheel, mostly when your at a stop or when your parking the vehicle.

Aug 10, 2003 | 09:31 PM

Racerguy

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From: BC, Canada

Power steering Noise

Noisy Ford p/s pumps are quite common and usually it wont cause any problems. They usually go a long time even if they make some noise.
Maybe run it by a mechanic for a listen and see what he thinks.

Aug 11, 2003 | 11:21 AM

MrBSS

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Power steering Noise

I guess it depends on what you consider "excessive noise". You'll definitely be able to hear it when you're working it at low speeds with the windows open.

Aug 11, 2003 | 05:41 PM

QuickerPickerUpper

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Power steering Noise

Thanks you guys for your input. I think I'm just use to GM power steering and Fords are so much noisier. So noise that my wife wanted to know what that noise was. I was thinking of having a machcanic listen to it, but thought I would pass it by the pool of experts on the w.w.w. Thanks

Aug 15, 2003 | 10:23 PM

mctmct

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From: Central Cal

Power steering Noise

Ford F150 steering is commonly described as "over-assisted"; I think this is reflected in the noisy pump. I had a '97 XLT, and every time I visited my sister, she'd be waiting by the door when I walked up. One day I asked her about this, and she said she always knew when I arrived because she could hear the truck turn up into her driveway. The pump was noisy, the pitman arm was un-greasable so it squeaked, and the pump also made lots of noise when turned fully to either side (Ford says don't hold the steering locked to full turn).

Now I have an '03 XLT, and it doesn't make all those steering noises... improved design, or luck- I don't know. Maybe more responses will shed light on this.

MCT