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View Full Version : Power Steering Pump vs. Steering Box Noise



Infidel Edition
08-14-2013, 10:46 AM
After changing the alternator and swapping out the AC pump for a pully...
I discovered I'm REALLY LEAKING power steering fluid (NEW LEAK!). So, I ordered a new pressure line and return line from rockauto.
I also picked up a seal kit for $20 +/-... and will get to it when I have time.
~ out of town on various taskings...

Thus far, I cleaned it with break cleaner in hopes of visually finding the leak... and then, with engine on, turned the wheel fully each way to see what was what. :poke:

That's when the noise was noticed!
With fluid levels at full. Turning the wheels doesn't make the noise until I get to the fully left / fully right...
...then it makes that whinny out of fluid noise.

Is that a pump going bad sign?
Or a steering box issue?
... or a non-issue?

While looking, I did see that I could replace the full pump w/ res. for $39. And just return the seal kit ($20) that'd be less PITA than a rebuild. So I did order it. But I want to make sure I'm fixing it all in 1 shot :cheerleader:
... because fixing the same issue multiple times :workout: is just crazzy! :banghead:

4.3LXJ
08-14-2013, 11:04 AM
If you are only hearing this noise when the steering wheel meets its stop, then all you are hearing is the pressure relief valve. If the box has no ability to turn, then the oil has to go somewhere so it is recycled within the pump at very high pressure

Infidel Edition
08-14-2013, 11:27 AM
Cool.
I was hoping I only had to replace the parts ordered to fix my leak...:bacondance: