Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Power steering/brakes

[RDBuck]

I think my 02 power steering pump is on the way out. The truck does not steer as easily as it should and the brakes require a lot of pressure to work (4 wheel disc). I sucked some of the fluid out and it was black and dirty. The truck has 43000 miles and I am the 3rd owner. A couple questions-

1. What is the warranty situation?

2. Is it one pump that supplies hydraulic assist to both the steering and the brakes? The brake system does not appear to be vacuum assist such as my 92.

3. NAPA lists a power steering pump for $107. Anyone had experience with this product?

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

 

[jkern]

lots of older threads on this subject. you brakes are hydralic over hydralic boosted. basically your PS pump also gives you power brakes. generally these PS pumps are underpowered from the factory. there are a couple little BOMBS that you can do to increase the performance. first use good synthetic fluid and second adjust the pressure relief valve. do a search on the forums for the procedue explained.

 

[RDBuck]

Thanks for the reply. I've done a search and found lots of posts about the same problem but no solutions. A couple owners were going back to the dealer but I could not find a follow-up. This situation makes an otherwise great truck a problem to drive, especially pulling a boat everyday (commercial fisherman) and backing down the ramp. If anyone has a solution I would really like to know what it is. I own a 92 Dodge Cummins and it is easier,by far, to drive and stop than this 02!

 

[RDBuck]

How do you adjust the pressure relief valve? I cannot seem to bring up this info on a search. My wife refuses to drive the truck because of the steering and brakes and the only reason I got an automatic was so she could/would spell me on trips. I'm glad I did not sell my 92!