Archived Vacuum pump teet ih shearing

[gssmithjr17@gmail.com]

Hi, I have a 2001 dodge ram 2500 turbo diesel 4x4 6spd. In Dec 2012 my oem(assume since I bought it used) vacuum pump had the teeth shear and thus I lost all power steering and brakes since the power steering pump and hydroboost system were inop. Now 2weeks ago the same problem occurred and I'm trying to figure out why this has happened. I have called both the dealer a local mechanic that specializes in Diesel work and both say it is an uncommon occurrence(they have never heard of it happening before). So before I spend the money on another pump I'm trying to figure out if it was just poor manufacturing that i got on the second pump? or if there is another problem area that I need to address along with replacing the vacuum pump?
all help is greatly appreciated. Thank you

 

[GAmes]

The cross cut coupler can be replaced by itself. Exactly what failed, the PS pump or ????????/ I found from experience that rebuilds from the parts houses will cost you more in time than a new OEM will cost you in $$$. I went through 5 PS pumps in one year. I get my OEM parts from http://www.mopar4less.com. You have to insure internet price when you call them.

 

[gssmithjr17@gmail.com]

The teeth on the vacuum pump side of the cross hatch have sheared. This also happened the first time as well. Without further tear down I'm not sure if a seize occurred causing them to be sheared but everything is free moving at the moment. It did occur shortly after extreme drops in temperature and the power steering fluid was really thin before I drained it. Nearly the same viscosity as water.

 

[GAmes]

I can't think of any reason except the PS pump was bolted to it incorrectly. I use synthetic PS fluid because I go into northern AB every now and then in the winter, plus synthetic just seems to work better all the time. Thin fluid is a good thing as a general rule. To me extreme cold is -25C, and I've had no issues at those temps.

 

[gssmithjr17@gmail.com]

Thank you for the help GAmes. I'm going to replace bother the PS and Vacuum pumps and make sure the proper torque is applied to the remounting of the new pieces. I had someone else do the replacement of the the second vacuum pump for me since I was driving long haul truck and they are a shade tree mechanic on their best days unfortunately. So this time I'll make sure all goes back in place properly so I can only blame myself when things go wrong lol.

 

[GAmes]

It isn't a difficult job. Either be super careful with the oil pressure sender or remove it first. Lots of people have broken theirs when sliding the vacuum pump out. I recommend Red Line PS fluid.

 

[crabman]

Here is a excellent YouTube link on vacuum pump repair.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJhR48a-9R8&spfreload=10