Info about Power Steering...

Topic: Info about Power Steering... (Read 2573 times) previous topic - next topic

Info about Power Steering...

April 02, 2005, 09:21:20 PM

Since my car leaks from the power steering pump every month, i want to fix this problem definitively, but before , i want to know some info about the P/S .

First, a line of oil leaks. Yes , im going to replace it, but it wont requires some type of sealing ?

What other components of the P/S are faulty from factory (i have heard that the P/S usually leaks) ?

As far i know, it´s a very dirty job and hard, but how much time i need to expect to do this labor ?

Re: Info about Power Steering...

Reply #1 – April 02, 2005, 11:57:20 PM

With the right pulley removal tool,you should be able to change the pump in about half an hour.The 2 lines (pressure and return),are also very simple.The return line just uses a piece of rubber tubing (quality chemical resistant),and 2 clamps.The pressure line just screws into the pump,and the other end goes into the rack.The pressure line uses a plastic "seal" aand should be replaced each time you remove the pressure line.They're really cheap.If you have the front of the car up on ramps,you should be able to change the lines and pump in an hour.....if you're taking your time.I'd suggest you steam clean,or run a power wash over and around that area before you start working.It'll give you a clean area to work,and,help prevent any in your steering rack when you remove the pressure line.Before you do the work,get under the car and check the componants out and get familiar with them,or read through a Haynes or Chilton manual if you're new to this job.The steering pump pulley removal tool is a short puller that doesn't require the radiator to be removed.After you remove the pulley,there are 3 bolts that hold the pump to the bracket.The new pump should come with a bolt and washer to put the pulley back on with.Good luck.

Re: Info about Power Steering...

Reply #2 – April 03, 2005, 12:16:28 AM

dont use generic power steering fluid. dont crucify me on this but i suggest using automatic transmission fluid in the power steering system.

Re: Info about Power Steering...

Reply #3 – April 03, 2005, 10:10:45 AM

Quote

automatic transmission fluid in the power steering system

That's "Type F" fluid, just like the owner's manual says.
NOT Dexron/Mercon.

Re: Info about Power Steering...

Reply #4 – April 03, 2005, 10:17:32 AM

Lemme guess why.....Increased seal life? When I got mine it had regular fluid in the old power steering pump and would like to leak when it got to be less than 40 deg. F out. The new ones has been in about a year with type F no problems

Re: Info about Power Steering...

Reply #5 – April 03, 2005, 12:03:12 PM

Quote

Increased seal life

yup

althought 90% of the time, by the time you get one of these used they leak, are noisy and have garbage in them. can they be rebuilt to stop making the noise or do you have to spring for a new one?

Re: Info about Power Steering...

Reply #6 – April 04, 2005, 02:06:50 AM

My pump burns the fluid.. i hate it.

Re: Info about Power Steering...

Reply #7 – April 04, 2005, 06:45:26 AM

There's a "rebuild" kit,which consists of seals,but it's a lot easier and overall a better idea just to get another one.Plus,with a rebuilt one from your local autoparts store,you'll have a warranty,so,if it starts whining or whatever,you can just go get another one.

Re: Info about Power Steering...

Reply #8 – April 05, 2005, 02:19:09 PM

Quote from: MasterBlaster

That's "Type F" fluid, just like the owner's manual says.
NOT Dexron/Mercon.

Wait a minute. So the AOD takes Dexron/Mercon and the power steering likes "Type F"?

Doh!

Squid

Re: Info about Power Steering...

Reply #9 – April 05, 2005, 03:29:05 PM

I have used Lucas power steering fluid stop leak before. The bottle's directions claim you need to give it 500 miles before it stops leaking. In reality it's more like 1,000 miles if not a little more. But it does work and it did stop the leaking in 3 of the cars that have used it. It seems to take awhile to swell up all the seals. But it eventually does and solved my leaking problems completely.

Re: Info about Power Steering...

Reply #10 – April 06, 2005, 01:50:55 AM

I had good luck with NAPA stop-leak. Costs $5, but it worked way better than the $2 stuff.

Re: Info about Power Steering...

Reply #11 – April 10, 2005, 12:59:14 AM

I used an STP stop leak and it stopped my ps pump leaks.