Power steering

[applesauce]

I have an unusual sound. Sounds like the alt. or the power steering pump. The alt just got rebuilt about a year ago though and tested out good, so im not sure. I have lots of miles on this motor so, how often do power steering pumps go bad? I just replaced all 3 belts and the noise got louder...

[Jeeves]

Where is the noise coming from?

[shaeff]

start by checking the power steering fluid. if you're low, it'll make all kinds of pretty sounds.

-shaeff

[applesauce]

My fluid is full and all the belts have been changed. The noise seems to be coming from the left side looking in from the front. Maybe the oil pump? Isn't that down under by the power steering pump on the left side?

[shaeff]

Originally Posted by applesauce

My fluid is full and all the belts have been changed. The noise seems to be coming from the left side looking in from the front. Maybe the oil pump? Isn't that down under by the power steering pump on the left side?

the oil pump is located in the oil pan, pretty much dead center. if it's an external noise, chances are that it's an accessory drive causing it. try taking off the powersteering belt. if the noise goes away, you've found the culprit.

are you using the correct fluid in the powersteering? it takes ATF, not actual powersteering fluid.

-shaeff

[Jeeves]

My guess is that the noise is coming from the power steering pump.

[bgrieger]

Your PS pluid may be full, but the screen in the bottom of the reservoir may be clogged, starving the pump hence the noise. Try removing it, and spray some brake cleaner in there, or pour in a dunk degreaser. shake it out well, and keep repeating until it appears fairly clean. Peer in with a flashlight to see how clean it is, then let dry, and flush it with a splash of ATF before you reinstall it. Bleed by turning it lock to lock while running and pouring in new fluid.