Power Steering

[architect-builder]

Ok, so yesterday, I started hearing noise while steering but its sporatic, I checked the fluid, its full and still the right color. anyone else have this happen, I'm about at 170,000. It appears to be lower, so I'm guessing (hoping not, but guessing) steering gear might be going out???????

B

 

[DaveBen]

The steering gear is probably good. The power steering pump is headed south. They are a lot cheaper than the gear and easier to change out.

Dave

 

[architect-builder]

Thanks Dave, I'll try to check that out, now that the temps have finally gone above 5 like the last few weeks....

It's wierd, steering works just fine, just noisy. (and a little embarrassing).

B

 

[DaveBen]

The noise can be small air bubbles in the return line. They get sucked into the pump and make that noise. You can drive it without worrying if you can stand the noise. Good luck Barrett!!


Dave

 

[KRISTOLSON]

Remember the power steering pump also runs the power brakes, so if it goes out, it could potentially be dangerous.

 

[BIG JOE]

Suck about half of the PS fluid out. Top it back off with some Trans-X (AZ, O'Riellys ect.). Start it up. Turn the steering wheel Hard left & Hard right.. and bump against full travel.. 3-4 times each. Repete that for 2-3 days, or until the squealing stops

Try that Barrett.. ??

Joe

 

[Tbar]

When mine did that I switched to a synthetic lube and the noise when away.........


Tbar

 

[architect-builder]

I'll try that today. Thanks guys. B

 

[architect-builder]

Ok, who feels stupid????? That would be me.

I changed the fluid as stated, no change, however, I wished I had asked someone to move the steering more while I was able to be under it. I finally got frustrated and called the local repair shop, they suggested a full flush before replacing the pump, so got an appointment for this afternoon. Something just kept nagging me, so I researched a little more. Found a post on another site, (one that a lot of us originally came from), from 2010. This guy had a video recording. Same damn sound. He said it turned out to be his ball joints. I have replaced my ball joints. Humm, wonder if the local Ford guys have ever looked at them when they serviced my truck.........

A little grease in all the zirks, wow, no more sound.

Note to self, do them yourself.....

Still wierd that it all started when our temps went below 0 and stayed a while.

Barrett

 

[DaveBen]

Good information Barrett. Thanks!

Dave