Power Steering ???? Need Help ASAP

[Sonny]

I found a 1999 Explorer, Eddie Bauer V8 2x4

I drove it, I noticed that when turning the wheel at a stand still or under 5 MPH I could feel a vibration.

Watching the tire while turning the tires bounces up and down very fast.

What is going on, is there air in the power steering system or is it a pump or something else??

Thanks for any quick help on this.
Sonny

 

[Sonny]

Any ideas, No noise out of pump just a steering system that feels heavy and rough only at idle.

Sonny

 

[onelasttry]

the pump sounds bad, but before you blame the pump remember this.... the rack can have a blockage in it that causes the pump to strain and studder. many times i have seen the money spent on a PS pump only to find out the entire power steering rack was bad.

IMO, it is most likely the pump, but with all that vibration and jerkiness, it sure does sound like the power rack could be the culprit.

edited to add: if the pump isnt noisy, you need the rack checked out immediately, sounds like thats what it is. it might just be a clot that can be blown out. otherwise, it's gonna cost you.

 

[Sonny]

edited to add: if the pump isnt noisy, you need the rack checked out immediately, sounds like thats what it is. it might just be a clot that can be blown out. otherwise, it's gonna cost you.

When you say blown out, is that just a normal bleeding the system? If It is a bad Rack, about how much are the parts and what would the labor be at an independent shop?

I am just about ready to buy this one, the problem is it is not at a Ford dealership. The mech's are not trained in Ford, so while we are dealing maybe I can use it to my advantage.

Thx, Sonny

 

[onelasttry]

i personally havent replaced a rack on my truck. pick up the phone and make some calls. the clot is not very likely. it's probably worn seals and they dont rebuild those as far as i know. it's a total replacement plus labor. it could cost 600 or better to have it done.

 

[Sonny]

Okay thanks,

I am now wondering is it possible that since the PS pump is quiet and I find no trouble except at idle if the reason could be the Truck has been sitting on a Dealership lot for a couple months. I only drove it 3-4 miles on Saturday.

Lack of use, is this even a possibility?????

I did check the cost $150.00 for a rack + labor so I figure about $300. total as I have a good place to take it.

I am hoping that it will clear up on its own as if the Dealership has to replace it before I buy it they will have to ask more than they already are. I do get a 2 month 2k warranty after I buy from a them.

I should have kept my mouth shut and tried it first. I need to figure this out by Monday AM... Anybody got any thoughts on this, I really like this one.

Sonny,