I've got an 87 E150 where I replaced the power steering box and the pump maybe 6 years ago.


Now I've noticed that sometimes, when I turn, a hear a faint groan and feel vibration in the steering wheel when I'm turning it. I didn't see a problem in the fluid level. I don't see a leak. I didn't change the fluid, however.

Is that just the pump?

 

Well, Ford trucks and vans are famous for their noisy power steering pumps. One "upgrade" I've seen here but never bothered to do is to replace the fluid with Type F tranny fluid--that's supposed to help the noise. The other is to put in a Saginaw (I think) brand pump.

Or there's always the tried and true solution--turn up the radio!

Jason

 

.....that a radio in good operating condition becomes more necessary as a vehicle ages. Not that it should overcome all bad noises, but it sure helps with those annoying groans, rattles, hums, and non-dangerous howls that will drive you nuts trying to find and fix them.

I like the way you think!

 

"well, I couldn't fix your brakes, so I just made your horn louder"

 

When you say "replaced the power steering box and the pump" can you specify new FORD parts, reman, aftermarket or used?

Changing the fluid can some times make steering both quieter & smoother operating. You did not mention the condition, only the "fluid level".

These closed hydraulic systems are vulnerable to contamination & wear at critical close tolerances. Depending on why the gear was replaced & how successful you were at keeping debris out, a small amount of recycling grit could hurt the pump.

Have disconnected the return line, used the motor to pump out nasty old steering fluid & had some good outcomes. Be sure to check for & remove any goo at the bottom of the reservoir.

As far as trying "Type F tranny fluid" if memory serves me, it was hard to find when I looked years ago for a JEEP Fleetvan w/medieval BW 2 speed tranny! I'd thought it was nearly obsolete & universally superseded. Finally found some old stock, Brand X in an unlikely spot.

I've heard guys use tranny fluid or regular 'farm' hydraulic oil. My '98 FORD specifies "MERCON ATF" which it also uses in tranny & transfer case. I've used power steering fluid in my '85 & '92 Club Wagons & believe that's what FORD recommended.