Power Steering

Symptom Troubleshooting Index (cont'd)

 17-19  
Symptom Procedure(s) Also check for:
Rattle or chattering

(Rack rattle)
  • Check for loose steering components (tie-rod and ball joints). Tighten or replace as necessary.
  • Check the steering column shaft for wobbling. If the steering column wobbles, replace the steering column assembly (see page 17-9).
  • Check the rack guide adjustment (see page 17-13).
  • Check the power steering pump pulley.
  • If the pulley is loose, tighten it (see step 46 on page 17-34).
  • If the pump shaft is loose, replace the pump (see page 17-27).
  
Hissing
  • Check the fluid level. If low, fill the reservoir to the proper level and check for leaks.
  • Check the reservoir for leaks.
  • Check for crushed inlet hose or loose hose clamp allowing air into the suction side of the system.
  • Check the power steering pump shaft oil seal for leaks.
  
Pump noise
  • Compare the pump noise at normal operating temperature to another like vehicle (pump noise up to 2 - 3 minutes after starting the engine in cold weather is normal).
  • Remove and inspect the pump for wear and damage (see page 17-28).
  
Squeaking Check the power steering belt tension and adjust as necessary (see page 17-23).  
Fluid Leaks from the steering gearbox
  • Fluid leaks from the top of the valve body unit:
  • Overhaul the valve body unit.
  • Fluid leaks from the boot A:
    Replace the valve oil seal on the pinion shaft.
  • Replace the cylinder end seal on the gearbox side.
  • Fluid leaks from the boot B: Replace the left cylinder end seal.
  • Fluid leaks from pinion shaft near the lower steering joint bolt: Overhaul the valve body unit.
  
Fluid leaks from line
  • Fluid leaks from the cylinder line connections (flare nuts):

    Tighten the connection and retest.

  • Fluid leaks from a damaged cylinder lines:
    Replace the cylinder line.
  • Fluid leaks from the pump outlet hose or return line fitting on the valve body unit (flair nuts):
    Tighten the fitting and retest. If it still leaks, replace the hose, the line, or valve body unit as necessary.
 
Fluid leaks from pump
  • Fluid leaks from the front oil seal: Replace the front oil seal.
  • Fluid leaks from the power steering pump housing:
    Replace the power steering pump the leaking O-rings or seals (see page 17-28), and if necessary replace (see page 17-27).
 
Fluid leaks from reservoir
  • Fluid leaks from around the reservoir cap: Fluid level is too high: drain the reservoir to the proper level. Aerated fluid: check for an air leak on the inlet side of pump.
  • Fluid leaks from reservoir: Check for the reservoir for cracks and replace as necessary.
  
Fluid leaks from pump outlet hose (high-pressure)
  • Check the fitting for loose bolts. If the bolts are tight, replace the fitting O-ring.
  • Fluid leaks at the swagged joint: Replace the outlet hose.
  
Fluid leaks from pump inlet hose (low-pressure) Check the hose for damage, deterioration, or improper assembly. Replace or repair as necessary.