I have a 1997 f-150 4x4 supercab with a 3 1/2" body lift, LT315/75R16 tires, and a 4.6L engine. I was getting the squealing you get when the ps fluid is low or the serpentine belt is worn. So, I checked the fluid and it was fine and the belt looked ok, not much wear. Not knowing what else to look for I decided to change the belt anyway. I got a Goodyear Gatorback figuring it was better than a stock belt. After lots of swearing and throwing tools I got the belt on, but its really tight. I can't move the tensioner either way its so tight. I was assured that the belt is the correct one so I took a test drive. Now I get the squeal turning the wheel either way but more so to the left and even more so when I give it gas. I was thinking the belt is too tight since I ha to fight with it to get it on. Is there a way to adjust anything to allow a little slack, or is there another problem entirely? Maybe because of the oversized tires the pump has to work harder? Any help would be really appreciated! Thanks.

 

Definitely the wrong size belt. If you have A/C the part # should be 4080990. I have a feeling you got 4080980 which is 98".

Now for the PS. What made you believe that the Power Steering pump was at fault for the squeal? Once a belt squeals, it will get worse when turning one way or the other. Normally you'll hear a low growling sound if the pump is going bad or has air in it.

Now to the squealing. Of all the vehicles I've ever owned, the Fords have been the worst at squealing. I don't know if they aren't doing a good job of lining up the pulleys at the factory or what. My 460 has 2 serpentines and on a wet morning it squeals like a pig. I put Armor All on the ribbed side of the belt. That way is gives it a little sideways slippage without squealing. It doesn't cause it to slip in it's direction of travel as the tensioner keeps it tight enough to keep that from happening.

When camping in our RV, at night we sit around a fire with other Ford Class C RVers and compare what each of us use to quiet the squealing. It's pretty common in campgrounds to see someone leaning under the front of their Ford Class C and spraying the belt just before they leave in the morning.

 

The reason that Ford has PS pump noise is because of the design of the pump, known as a slipper pump. Once you get the tiniest little scratch or knick it is doomed to make noise until it is replaced, and this only takes a fraction of a second once and it is set. Also, slipper pumps inherintly (sp?) make noise.

 

Thanks for the replies. I thought the belt might be wrong at first but I checked it with the store and they said it was right. I'll check again just to be sure.
What made me think the noise was pump related was, since changing the belt made no difference with the noise and the old belt probably didn't NEED to changed because it wasn't too bad, and because the reservoir was full to just below the line while running. As I said, I didn't know what else to look for. Now
I think I'll check the belt again and try the armor all thing. If it ever stops raining,(5 days now) I'll take a good look at the pump. Also, I heard that power steering fluid shouldn't be put in, only atf, or it will make more noise and cause damage. I havn't added any fluid since I got the truck, but I don't know what is in it. Guess I'll flush it and add the atf just in case. Thanks again for info!
Sorry I ramble on a bit

 

When You Drain The Pump Add A Bottle Of Lucas Power Steering Stop Leak.this Stuff Is Good.on Fords Be Sure To Use Atf.if You Do Install A Pump Buy A New One,when You Buy A Rebuilt Pump You Are Taking A Chance Of That Pump Making Noise Too.power Steering Pump Problems Are Very Common On Ford Cars And Trucks. Good Luck!!!

 

I also am reserching a noisy p/s pump on a 2000 F150 with 95,000 miles. Never changed or added fluid. Original belt also. Pump is making a noise such that that I am starting to get concerned. The fluid in the resovoir is very "agitated" as compared to a Mercury I own. Anyone have any ideas?. Can't convince myself it is the pump because of the fluid activity. Thanks for any ideas. Al