Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Power steering pump

[RDBuck]

I'm going to replace my power steering pump in my 02 in an effort to make the steering and braking a little easier. Right now it steers too hard for plowing snow, much harder than my 92 Dodge. My question is has anyone found a better or upgraded pump? I,ve searched the forums and posted this problem before but have not had any luck.

 

[lrox]

I'm also looking for something better, I run 315 pro comp a/t's in the summer and then switch to 235/85/16 in order to steer in tight spaces plowing.

 

[RDBuck]

I do the same thing LROX but the truck still does not steer the way a modern truck should. Everything in the entire front end has been checked out and it all comes down to the pump not having enough pressure to drive both the brakes and steering-especially going slow such as plowing or backing up trailers. My local dealer reports a few complaints but everything has checked out within specs. When you need two hands with a tight grip to turn the wheels going 5mph something is not right.

 

[Texas Diesel]

Dont replace your pump, the problem is the pressure regulator is set too low. Take the regulator out and add a shim or two to raise line pressure or get a regulator out of a 98 truck.

 

[RDBuck]

Thanks for the reply. I thought as much-about the regulator-but my service books do not show where it is or even mention it. Any help would be greatly appreciated! I'm willing to try anything to improve the situation.

 

[Texas Diesel]

I'm going off of memory here but there are two low pressure return lines on the PS pump, they hove low pressure type hose clamps and there is one high pressure discharge line. At the very bottom the high pressure line screws into the regulator which screws into the pump housing. No need to remove it from the truck, just remove the regulator. Once you have it out you will see a 50 or 100 mesh screen, probably filled with crud. Inside of that regulator you will see another nut, remove it slowly (it's on the fluid side of the assembly), photo or scetch how it comes apart. Eventually you will find, in this order, ball (stainless steel), spring, and one or more shims. Add to the shim stack to increase line pressure. You will have to improvise the shims unless you run to a wrecking yard and buy a junker to salvage shims from. If you haveany extra shims, I need some too

 

[DCTECH]

I have had trucks have the same problem and ball joints are ok and p/s pump passed pressure and flow tests. Problem was caused by the hydroboost leaking pressure off into the return system. The pressure from the pump goes through the hydroboost before getting to the steering gear. Replacing the hydroboost fixed these trucks and they all had snowplow on them also.

 

[Heavy Metal]

Tejas,



I pulled mine apart yesterday and there were no shims. I found the ball and spring but no shims. I dug around inside the assembly with a pick to make sure they weren't stuck inside and sure 'nuff-no shims. So, my question is where exactly do I add shims in relation to the existing parts. Also, if anyone happens to have any laying around, please post the measurements (OD, ID, thickness). I am not above having someone machine some if I can't locate any.



Thanks,

Bryan

 

[Texas Diesel]

They go in this order: ball-spring-shim(s). Your pump must have developed spec'd pressure w/o any shims.



DCTECH: "p/s pump passed pressure and flow tests", problem is DC lowered the pressure spec for some reason, probably lawyer proofing the steering. How much was the hydroboost assembly?

 

[DCTECH]

Pump pressure spec is same as trucks without hydroboost, 1450-1550 psi.

Hydroboost from Chrysler is $695. have found cheaper in the aftermarket.

 

[TrqMonster]

new steering box

I just helped my friend install a new steering box on his '01 yesterday. Made his truck steer very easy. It is an after market box that is rated to handle 40 inch tires. His are only slightly bigger than stock. He was actually trying to get rid of play in the wheel which it did help somewhat but it made it very easy to turn the wheel.



The cost was about $300 and installation is easy.

 

[Texas Diesel]

Any possibility you could measure PS line pressure? That would settle the discussion once and for all if you could.

 

[RDBuck]

Any chance you can get the name of the supplier for the steering box designed for bigger tires? I have not had a chance to get into the pressure regulator yet-too hot and too busy. Soon as summer is over I plan on taking things apart and doing whatever it takes to make it steer at least as easy as my 92 Dodge Cummins which is a heavier truck (as presently set-up) and has bigger tires than my 02.

 

[wes reeves]

Any chance you can get the name of the supplier for the steering box designed for bigger tires? I have not had a chance to get into the pressure regulator yet-too hot and too busy. Soon as summer is over I plan on taking things apart and doing whatever it takes to make it steer at least as easy as my 92 Dodge Cummins which is a heavier truck (as presently set-up) and has bigger tires than my 02.

PSC makes steering boxes for bigger tires. I was told the 841M is good for slightly oversize tires and the 841MR is for very large tires such as 40"-44".



Here's their website. http://www.pscpowersteer.com/



I'm not affiliated with PSC in any way. Just a satisfied customer.

 

[bavrit]

I put on a high performance pump from AGR. I can steer lock to lock with one finger. I had heard of problems with AGR products but so far so good. The steering is almost too easy. Good luck.

 

[TrqMonster]

PSC steering box

The box my friend put on was the PSC and he is very happy with it so far. Like I said, it turns much easier now, I couldnt believe it when I drove it. Also not affiliated with any shop or product period. Just calling them as I see them.

 

[cyborg]

Before I get to R&R a pump, I want to change the PS fluid, any high tech synthetic availible? That will keep my warranty in tact!!