Steering doesn't work when engine gets warm
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Junior User
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 95
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From: Kalispell, MT
Steering doesn't work when engine gets warm
I have a 1976 F-250 4x4 with the power assist steering(hydrualic ram where the steering stabilizer would be)
My problem is that when my engine heats up my power steering doesn't work well.
I don't know if temp of steering fluid would do that. I was also wondering if I went to a smaller pulley wheel off the p/s pump hence turning the pump faster would help. I have heard once on here about routing the return hose through the trans line cooler on the radiator to cool the fluid. I think though that the holes in the radiator are smaller that the lines for the p/s pump. I don't know what speed the fluid goes through the lines though so I don't know if this is a problem;
could I run a more viscous fluid or would that be hard on pump when cold starting at below zero temps.
Thanks for any info
Jeff
My problem is that when my engine heats up my power steering doesn't work well.
I don't know if temp of steering fluid would do that. I was also wondering if I went to a smaller pulley wheel off the p/s pump hence turning the pump faster would help. I have heard once on here about routing the return hose through the trans line cooler on the radiator to cool the fluid. I think though that the holes in the radiator are smaller that the lines for the p/s pump. I don't know what speed the fluid goes through the lines though so I don't know if this is a problem;
could I run a more viscous fluid or would that be hard on pump when cold starting at below zero temps.
Thanks for any info
Jeff
Post Fiend
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 11,945
Likes: 3
From: Spokane, WA
It might also be that the pressure bypass system in the pump is not closing fully and it's allowing most of the pressure to just recirculate in the pump rather than going to the ram. If you try a heavier fluid and it doesn't make a difference you might want to try a different pump.
Thread Starter
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Junior User
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 95
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From: Kalispell, MT
Yes, just p/s fluid. Do you think a different fluid would be better.
What is ATF? Is it hydrualic fluid?
My pump is only 6 mo old although it was hard to keep fluid in it because my hoses were leaking for a while but the two pump hoses are new now. It ran with little fluid in it for a while but doesnt make noise now.
What about the fluid temp
Jeff
What is ATF? Is it hydrualic fluid?
My pump is only 6 mo old although it was hard to keep fluid in it because my hoses were leaking for a while but the two pump hoses are new now. It ran with little fluid in it for a while but doesnt make noise now.
What about the fluid temp
Jeff
Posting Guru
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,008
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From: Annapolis,MD.
Automatic Transmission Fluid(ATF).People have used for years as substitute for p/s fluid cause it's cheaper and easier to find,some systems even recommend it.but not the best to use.Power steering is a hydraulic system and ATF has a tendency to "foam" thus losing ability to provide proper pressure as it warms.ivanribic is right,used to be able to buy pressure valve from dealer for about $15-20,but don't think there avail. any longer.I'd say try another pump also.
