Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Power steering pump / vacuum pump rattle?

[JC Buck]

I'm trying to track down a metal on metal vibration-rattle that I experience when rolling at idle speed or stopped when the power steering is not under load (the wheel is not being turned). The sound seems to be coming from the power steering pump area and I'm wonder if its possible for either the power steering pump or vacuum pump to create a metallic rattle. The vibration-rattle is substantial from inside the cab and seems to be somewhere in the vicinity of the driver's floorboard. The power steering fluid level is fine (added fluid recently after changing the steering box- the fluid I used was blue Napa universal type steering fluid that is supposed to mesh fine with other fluid). The vibration-rattle has been there since I purchased the truck four months ago.

Also, neither my cruise control nor my vent selector work so I know there is a vacuum failure somewhere but I haven't gotten around to isolating the problem.

 

[hsmith]

What kind of truck do you have? If it is a 2nd. gen, the noise could be in the steering column lower bushing area. Grab the shaft where it comes out of the column and see if you can move it side to side. I have a similar issue but mine is in the sector. Don't see how the pump could be the culprit.

On the vacuum issue, check the cruise supply line at the servo beneath the drivers side battery. Hard plastic line is probably broken just a couple inches from the servo. Battery acid seeps down there and creates problems.

 

[JC Buck]

98 4x4 club cab with 200k miles. When I grab the steering shaft near where it comes through the firewall and attempt to shake it, it moves maybe a 1/16" or less from side to side. Is this normal or too much play? Thanks.