Power Steer Problem..............
 

i replaced the power steering pump on my 83 v6 vert. the old one was really noisy,growled an howled an such. used the correct puller to swap out the pulley (no hammering),flushed the system (new fluid),new hoses (pressure and return). the new (rebuilt) pump is just as noisy as the one i took off! well,crap!! any suggestions? could the rack be causing the howling an growling? i used power steering fluid from o'reilly's.

Re: Power Steer Problem..............
 

there theoretically could be a restriction in the rack causing the pump to max out and make noise. Unfortunately ford power steering systems in the 80's and 90's suck and make noise.
Did you bleed the power steering? Turn it from lock to lock a few times with the car off preferably on a hill with the nose up (worked for me) and then start it and go lock to lock and see if the noise goes away.
The best solution (although it requires special tools) is to use an adapter, pull a vacuum on the system for 5-15 minutes and usually the power steering will quiet down.
Does the steering shudder when turning from lock to lock with the car on? That is a sign that there is air in the system.

Re: Power Steer Problem..............
 

thanks for the reply! the steering is smooth,just noisy as he11. i'll try the nose-up deal an let you know what happens. then i'll get the vacuum thing done if needed.

Re: Power Steer Problem..............
 

Hate to say it, but I've seen <heard> a lot of rebuilt Ford power steering pumps be just as noisy as the the pumps they replaced.

Aftermarket pumps seem to be very hit/miss on quality.

Re: Power Steer Problem..............
 

well,i tried the nose-up/engine-off/lock-to-lock thing......i want to think it helped a bit,but perhaps it's just me trying to convince myself that the pump is a little quieter now............hahahahahaha :) and yes,the parts guy says that noise is a fairly common complaint with rebuilt p/s pumps......live and learn,right?turn up the stereo :) drop the top :cool: and save up some cash for a new pump :mad:

Re: Power Steer Problem..............
 

well that sucks :( , at least you know you'll have the power steering working for awhile (hopefully).