Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Power Steering Pump

[SLangone]

Can someone help me understand how the vacuum pump plays a part of the power steering pump? I have notice a loss in fluid in my power steering reservoir and think its time to replace. The truck has over 160k on her and is almost 15yrs old. If I need to replace the power steering pump should I also replace the vacuum pump as well not sure if this matters but my cruise control stopped working since I bought the truck?

 

[hsmith]

The vacuum pump is gear driven and drives the p/s pump that is mated to it. Most common cause of no cruise is broken vacuum line near the servo.

Other than an engine oil leak, the vacuum pump has no issues and lasts a long time. Seldom "wears" out.

 

[SLangone]

To remove power steering pump is it just 4 bolts or do I need a special tool?

Thanks for the help

 

[GAmes]

Ifyou don't have a factory service manual I suggest you buy one. It will be the best $$ you spend on your pickup. Dodge Cummins Diesel Truck Accessories – Geno’s Garage



Besides the four bolts there is a support bracket. It is easier to remove the vacuum pump/power steering pump as a unit. A good time to replace the seal between them as well. The kit for that can be had from Cummins for about $11.

 

[SLangone]

I do have the manual but as you and I know its very brief. Its more designed for the skilled everyday mechanic one who doesn't need a lot of pictures. Do you have a part number on the cummins part?

Thanks for the reply

 

[GAmes]

Search is your friend.



https://www.turbodieselregister.com...994-1998/225307-power-steering-pump-seal.html



https://www.turbodieselregister.com...n-discussions/220864-power-steering-leak.html



There are lots more to choose from

 

[Rich M-37]

Look at Genos garage, Buy the vacuum pump kit. It includes a DVD and 2 sets of seals.

it does not get any better than that! I redid mine only to find out that the seals were bad on the power steering pump itself. I got a new pump from PSC. New seals and good to go.

Rich M-37

 

[S.Morris]

Check the vacuum as close to pump as possible... . they rarely go bad. Have a 97 3500 with 450k+ miles and stilll on original. The p. steering pump was replaced about a month ago..... they can be a bugger to get the air out of.



Best to get a good manual and then ask about any of the steps you dont understand. You should also replace the oil lines to take chance of doing it twice out of the equation... ... . dont ask me how I know this

 

[SLangone]

Rich which pump did you got with from PSC? I know they sell one that requires a remote cooler and the other I guess is better than stock?

 

[Rich M-37]

SLangone,

I bought the stock replacement pump from PSC # SP1390. You will have to switch the resevior or can to the new pump. The better than stock pump is the # SP1490 yes it does need a remote cooler the PSC website says it is for low engine rpm performance. For my application, towing and general driving and some snow plowing, I did not think I needed it. Even though I always try to up grade when replacing components. That is why I bought a new pump not a $65 Advance rebuilt pump.

Rich M-37