'77 4x with power steering problems
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Freshman User
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'77 4x with power steering problems
Hi all, I'm on my second mid-70's ford 4x4 and love the trucks. My problem is the power steering systems in both trucks have been problematic. The PS pump makes a nasty "grrr" noise and pretty soon the assist is intermitent. About every 6 monthes to a year the pump will go south. I shut the truck off and the fluid level in the pump overflows and pours out. I've tried everything - got the gearbox rebuilt, rebuild pumps, completely replaced the fluid, bleeding the system - same old story. What is the proper procedure for bleeding the system - raise the front wheels, turn steering from end to end and hold for several seconds, then loosen gear-box head bolts a hair until fluid comes out? how difficult is a Saganaw PS pump swap?
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Freshman User
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'77 4x with power steering problems
I just read the tech article on swapping the thompson pump with the late-model ford pump. near bolt-in replacement. Is the late-model pump more robust than the thompson? How important is a cooler? I've heard the new pumps have the same problems that I'm experiencing with the thompson...
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jun 1999
Posts: 24,552
Likes: 74
From: Creedmoor, North Carolina
'77 4x with power steering problems
Ben cooling is important. I have seen a guy burn up two pumps traveling from Michigan to Blowing Rock NC to last years truck show, because he didn't have any cooling lines. A good type is one that fits at the radiator. and would be connected to the return line.
Good luck,
John
Good luck,
John
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'77 4x with power steering problems
My return line comes down, across the front crossmember, and back. Is this adequate, or do I need a tranny cooler with fins? I've also thought about putting an oil filter on the return line. I guess the biggest question is how do I keep getting air in the system?
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jun 1999
Posts: 24,552
Likes: 74
From: Creedmoor, North Carolina
'77 4x with power steering problems
Ben, I have a 76 system in my truck, the return line is somewhat like you describe, except that before it returns it goes back and fourth a few times.
Now about the air, I dont't have a clue. Is the high pressure hose connected right? That hose should go from the pump to the gear, than the smaller return line maybe five ft in length be as described as above.
John
Now about the air, I dont't have a clue. Is the high pressure hose connected right? That hose should go from the pump to the gear, than the smaller return line maybe five ft in length be as described as above.
John
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