Technical Tips > Brakes, Suspensions, Steering, Wheels & Tyres

Power steering issue

<< < (4/8) > >>

Vette Obsessed:
Hi guys, it's me who is having the power steering issues.

I suspect the aeration of the fluid is initially caused by the bleeding of the system (or improper method of doing it).  The noise calms down after at least a day or two of driving.

This all started because the system ALWAYS gets loud when driving on curvy roads/tracks in a spirited fashion.  I tried a few fluid flushes and different fluids to no avail - the groaning after filling the system is an additional issue to the "getting a steering pump groan when driving quickly on twisty roads".

The car has an oil cooler on the power steering and I am doubtful at this point that it is heat related (although I now have a cold air feed for the oil cooler now (thanks again for the help with that Cam ;42) I have not been able to test it conclusively yet).

The only time I haven't done this process with the wheels off the ground was at Cameron's although the noise has always been the same after filling the reservoir.

At this point I am thinking it is a pump or rack issue (the aerating fluid on twisty roads/racetrack issue that is).


--- Quote ---Originally posted by david_moore
Sorry I can't help here, am very interested to know more as the power steering in the '91 does howl its head off after 'spirited drivin'. And no, that does not mean after 'the four schooner handling' option has been purchased.
I have often wondered about the correct way to service the power steering on a C4. Wish i still had the '79.:22
--- End quote ---


I'll let you all know when I get to the bottom of it David.  I've had this issue since I got the car and am now committed to eliminating it. :24

After recent experience with an additive, I am inclined to say to avoid using them - whilst I think I used too much additive vs oil, I have just blown two lines on my power steering system in two consecutive days since using additive in the system (which is VERY thick).

Chromie:
hi obsessed
If a pump makes a noise for a long period, no amount of flushing will cure it as the damage is already in the pump.;50
Rack will not cause a pump noise only a clunk, vibration or oil leaks.;37
What you need is a new/reconditioned pump.
As far as the additives are concerned ;51 with what you have stated.:v
Make sure that you allow plenty of time to fit the new pump
Prime the pump before fitting(put pump in oil and drive the shaft with a drill and see how the flow is (be prepaired for a mess as they pump large volumn of oil):spook
Read your hand book for correct oil type (I use TQ111):24

Chromie:
Oh and special note
Always check your oil level with engine running
First check it cold and not running
Then hot and not running
Look at the level in the resivour make note of it's height then start the engine and look at the level again. Some if not most pumps should have the oil level checked while engine is running.
BE CAREFULL NOT TO TOUCH THE BELT OR ANY OTHER MOVING ENGINE PART.;28;34

david_moore:
Great info chromie! I have done all that you have mentioned 'cept the vacuum stuff with steering specialists. I find it v difficult to find a mechanic that can be trusted and knows what they are talking about, but I am the original ultra cynic. I know they exist, but just not in my 'hood. Have had the pump at several specialists and am assurred it is quite ok. However, it still howls, groans and growls after 'sustained high revs' (ZEDohSIX).
I really think there is a problem with the pump, and from what you say, your info points to this. I am interested in how many others have this problem with their C4. Perchance is it particular year models of C4. A mismatch of steering rack to pump on lhd to rhd conversion?
Hey VO did you say your C4 has a cooler in the power steering system? I did put one on the ol'79 C3 but it was to stop the paint peelin off! well it stopped the odd leak anyway. But seriously, I thort the steering rack system was a lot more advanced, the power steering in the old 1983 commodore I have, beautiful.
As even a C4 corvette can really get movin, it would be nice to be sure about the steering, so many have told me it is ok, but I dunno..;49

Chromie:
I find this power steering noise issue strange:b4
As I have not come accross this problem in my travels with vehicles and I have done a few Corvettes:grr
So my thoughts on this matter is as follows;49
Assuming things associated with the steering componets are fitted correctly.
1/ Heat interference ie exhaust too close to pipes (solution test line with a thermo gun and see how hot the oil is after a hard run) you may need to insulate the line from heat as an oil cooler may cool the oil too much and cause early failure.
2/ Faulty power steering lines/fittings/hoses (meaning dags/sharp objects inside the line causing airation or sharp bends/calapsed hoses causing restrictiuon)
3/ Poor quality oil/incorrect oil level.
Note all power steering pumps will make a noise when on full lock as this it the pressure relief valve dumping oil.
I probably have to say here but C4's and later should be done by someone with reasonable experience
C2's and earlier can be done by almost anyone (except ya wife;30) as these models are pretty much idiot proof;50

Navigation

[0] Message Index

[#] Next page

[*] Previous page