well about 2 weeks ago a loud kinda whining noise has been coming from the belt area. it started out pretty small, barely noticeable and would be kinda random. seemed like it would be most prominent when theengine was cold and thenquieted down when warmed up.now its pretty noticeable and is more consistant even with the engine warm. at first i thought it was the alternator but when i listened with a stethoscope, no noise. i've been checking for the sound and it seems to be coming from the power steering pump. i havnt noticed any difference in steering tho. does anyone know what may be causing the noise and if its fixble? i really dont want to buy a new pump but i may not have a choice.

any help, ideas, comments, suggestions, etc.. is greatly appreciated.

thanks!

 

You might want to begin by removing the power steering belt to test whether the noise goes away. If so, the problem is either a slipping belt or a bad pump. Is the PS fluid low? Next try replacing the belt to test whether the noise is eliminated. If not, you likely need a new pump.

 

i replaced the belt just a few months ago and i know its on correctly. fluid is fine and like i said, steering and all feels normal. i'll take the belt off and run it like u mentioned. the sound isnt a squeal like a loose belt would make, its a consistant kinda whine. it sounds very similar to the sucking noise a short ram intake makes(i know the noise isnt my intake).

kinda sucks that some parts are starting to catch up with the age of my baby[&:]

thanks for the help RonJ!

 

Is it whining like a bad bearing in the pump maybe?

you can probably get a rebuilt pump for like $100-120 plus your core.

 

The pictures (from the 96-00 manual) show how to troubleshoot a variety of power steering noises.

 

yeah i was just looking at the parts for the p/s pump and my guess is its the bearing. thats like $20 for that but i dont feel like taking the pump apart.. guess ill try to get a new pump and see how things go from there. sure hope it cures the noise.

thanks for the help!

 

if its a bearing just take it apart..pull the seal,pack the bearing with bearing lube(you can find at any auto parts store) and put back together..