Hissing sound coming from PS pump.

shawneesnaketail · Post by **shawneesnaketail** » 20 Apr 2019, 13:53

I have had a hissing and groaning sound coming directly from my PS pump for about 2 months now, it started after I idiotically tried to get my car free when it was stuck in a blizzard. I could find no leaks, and the fluid level has remained the same, but the noise continued. Fast forward to yesterday, I replaced the pump with a junk yard find. I noticed that upon spinning both pumps by hand, the old one trickled and the new one created a steady stream of ATF. After installation the sound was minimally better. I feel like my steering feels a bit tight, but I still have decent power steering. Is it looking like I need a new rack? :/

Post by **DeadEric** » 20 Apr 2019, 17:29

I'm not sure I've heard hissing from power steering before without a fluid leak. I'm curious if you've removed the belt and ran the car to see if the sound is still present. Does it change as you turn the wheel side to side? How does it sound when you hit the stops?

I've used power steering systems to push hubs out I couldn't get out with my air hammer... they are pretty robust.

Post by **wizechatmgr** » 20 Apr 2019, 21:38

Double check that you aren't sucking air into it. The suction hose could have a small leak and it might suck air... Usually if that's the case, you'll see seepage however.

Post by **theWIFES_S70** » 21 Apr 2019, 10:52

Also, I really think if you're running original pumps, racks, and lines, it's in your best interests to regularly replace PS fluid.

shawneesnaketail · Post by **shawneesnaketail** » 21 Apr 2019, 11:11

theWIFES_S70 wrote: ↑21 Apr 2019, 10:52 Also, I really think if you're running original pumps, racks, and lines, it's in your best interests to regularly replace PS fluid.

Pump has been replaced, I have flushed the system over 4 times.

Post by **theWIFES_S70** » 21 Apr 2019, 11:19

I've found that when I flush/replace fluid, I end up removing a bunch of gunk in the power steering pump reservoir. I believe there's a screen in there. If you aren't seeing any leaks, which is a good thing, it might mean that your pump is having to work a little harder than it should. Maybe there's a big piece of gunk in there restricting flow? When I turkey baste the reservoir, I really get in there and scrape around, I've pulled out a lot of gunk. Good luck finding the source.

Post by **FlyingVolvo** » 21 Apr 2019, 14:34

theWIFES_S70 wrote: ↑21 Apr 2019, 11:19 I've found that when I flush/replace fluid, I end up removing a bunch of gunk in the power steering pump reservoir. I believe there's a screen in there. If you aren't seeing any leaks, which is a good thing, it might mean that your pump is having to work a little harder than it should. Maybe there's a big piece of gunk in there restricting flow? When I turkey baste the reservoir, I really get in there and scrape around, I've pulled out a lot of gunk. Good luck finding the source.

I highly recommend a Magnefine inline filter. Been running them on my car for many years and miles with no issues. PS fluid stays incredibly clear and clean, looks new even after a couple years with no change. I have it spliced in on the return line, just prior to the reservoir.