Power steering probs

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Oct 16, 2005 | 08:00 PM

sniperscoutwill

Thread Starter

New User

Joined: Jul 2003

Posts: 19

Likes: 0

Power steering probs

I have a '79 F-150, w/ '86 460. I replace the Ford power steering pump with a rebuilt unit, and both hoses as well. I still have the same problem....power to the left, and armstrong manual to the right. I'm told by some friends that I need to rebuild or replace the gear. What I would like to know, is if it would be beneficial to replace the Ford pump with a Saginaw unit when I do this, and how dificult it would be to do so. Are there any kits out there to do this kind of swap, or can I do it with factory pieces from a junkyard?
Thanks,
Will

Oct 16, 2005 | 09:08 PM

MBBFord

Post Fiend

Joined: Mar 2005

Posts: 8,542

Likes: 5

From: Louisiana

I've heard it can be done with pieces right out of the junkyard, and I'm thinking about doing this, because I think the bearings are going out on my pump, and I'm tired of the wineing even when full of fluid.

Oct 17, 2005 | 02:00 AM

fordflaresides

Elder User

Joined: Apr 2004

Posts: 535

Likes: 0

From: Tucson, AZ

If it's a new pump then I would guess bad bearing(s) in the box depending whether it's recirculating or worm and roller. You might also want to check out you linkage. Tie rods, pitman arm, center link, drag links make sure nothing is bent or damaged that could cause binding.

Oct 17, 2005 | 02:07 AM

Torque1st

Posting Legend

Joined: Sep 2001

Posts: 30,255

Likes: 37

Whenever you replace ANY component in the PS system ALWAYS use a return line filter. Replacing ANY component introduces particles into the system that are a leading cause of pump noise and component failure.

Wix Transmission/PS Filter
===================
Wix transmission/PS filter #58964
Ford equivalent filter kit #XC3Z-7B155-AA
Ford filter alone #XC3P-7B155-BA
200 psi working, pressure relieved, magnetic
change yearly or 12000 miles

Oct 17, 2005 | 02:51 AM

ford390gashog

Fleet Owner

Joined: Jan 2004

Posts: 26,007

Likes: 575

From: Brentwood,CA

the biggest problem with those inline filters is that they only catch metal because they use a magnet. so anything else will not get filtered out. what i have found works best is to use a inline diposable fuel filter with sight bowl that filters down to 12 microns and has a burst of 95 psi which is way more than you need return line runs about 35to 40 psi. the filters are only 3.00 each.

Oct 17, 2005 | 03:30 AM

Torque1st

Posting Legend

Joined: Sep 2001

Posts: 30,255

Likes: 37

The inline filter I specified has both a magnet and filtration material. They are more expensive but made for the task. The paper element must be able to take the pressure differential from cold ATF and also have a bypass. The fuel filters will not do that. I get mine on eBay for about $6 each but in the store they will run $15-20. You can have over 1500 PSI on some PS systems if you block the return line. If the return line is blocked on a tranny sometimes the transmission will not lube properly and parts burn up as well as other nasty things.

Last edited by Torque1st; Oct 17, 2005 at 03:33 AM.

Oct 23, 2005 | 09:49 PM

sniperscoutwill

Thread Starter

New User

Joined: Jul 2003

Posts: 19

Likes: 0

I really dig the idea of adding a filter to the P/S system. Seems pretty obvious that it will add a lot of reliability and longevity to the entire system. However, I am still interested in converting to a Saginaw pump. Almost every Ford I see on the road, draws attention to my ears first because of the growling power steering pump. I have been told that some of the early Broncos came with a Saginaw pump from the factory, and I used to have a '82 E-150 van with a 302 that had a Saginaw pump. Has anyone done this swap onto a 460? Are the parts available in a junkyard?
Thanks,
Will