Power Steering Problem?

[JasonSmith]

Hi! I'm new to the forum but have been reading articles as of late and I was hoping you gents might be able to offer some advice. I have noticed on my '96 Explorer that I'm getting a bit of a vibration that sounds as if it's coming from behind the steering wheel, only happens at low speed and typically when the wheel is turned tight, as if pulling into a parking spot. Also, I've noticed that I hear that noise for a few seconds right after I start the engine. I've searched the archives here and found a couple suggestions that I have followed, including checking the fluid level and it is fine.

My question is, anybody have any ideas, possibly the pump? If so, anybody have an idea of what a pump goes for these days and how difficult that would be for a novice to install? I've also seen references to possible rack problems, but seeing as I'm not sure that I could do that repair myself, any ideas on cost there?

I would greatly appreciate any extra help that you seasoned veterans could offer a newbie!

 

[Hartman]

I would start with the fluid first. You said the level was fine, now check the color. The fluid should be a nice, deep red. When you stick your finger in it and it's brown or black, it needs to be changed.

To flush the system, I like to use the way Dasfrem does it. Put the truck on jackstands, remove the tires, and pump out the fluid in the reservior. Then add fresh fluid. Start the truck and move the wheel from lock to lock for about 10 times. Then pump that fluid out, and add more, etc. Do this process until you've flushed about 2 quarts of fluid through the system.

Doing this really helped my system. It might have possibly saved my p/s pump. Although I didn't have any vibrations, my steering wheel was starting to get a little tight when turning.

I hope this helps you out.

 

[JasonSmith]

Much appreciated! I checked the fluid color this morning and it still appears to be a deep red color and I'm not experiencing any tightness in the steering, but I may still have my local mechanic take a look at it and possibly flush the fluid that's in there now. If I can save the pump from having to be replaced that would be fantastic at this point.