Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Dang power steering pump.

[Chipstien]

So whats the deal. Why doesn't the PS work when sitting still. I have to be moving to turn the darn wheel. Is the pump bad..... ther is no abnormal noise coming from the pump. So what is the cure. Help, PS-less in Seattle.

 

[Bob Wagner]

hey chip, how are ya? check out the bomber site its being debated today

 

[rolltideram]

I had my 01 at the dealer today for the same thing. They said it drove normal. I am having some shoulder problems but I think it should also work better. I guess I will try sythetic fluid if I can find some. Tractor Supply and Wally world don't sell it. JC

 

[jkern]

in general the power steering pump doesn't produce enough GPM or PSI at an idle when you are trying to turn the wheel and/or have your foot on the brake, cause it supplies power for our power brakes. there really isn't much to do about this except use quality synthetic fluid especially when it is cold outside and try not to crank on the wheel when sitting still... that by itself is the hardest thing that anybody can do to all the steering gear... box, pump, linkages, tierods, etc.

 

[Cliffman]

Front tire air pressure makes a differance. Not a whole lot, but some. I run 65 psi in the front and 80 psi when loaded or pulling and I can tell a differance.

 

[kevinb83]

Power Steering Problems

I backed out of the driveway yesterday and basically had zero brakes. I put the truck in neutral and revved the engine getting the brake pedal back. When I got home a little later there was a visible puddle on the drive way. Looks like the leak is coming from the back side of the pump and the dealer could not find anything other than an almost dry pump and traces of where it leaked out. They filled it up and nothing!!!!!!! Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.