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Power Steering groan ALL the time

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Old 12-19-01, 09:15 PM
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Question Power Steering groan ALL the time

Ok, this is a good one.

I replaced the power steering hoses, bled the system (turning from one extream to the other several times). And ever since then there is this constant groan who's pitch changes up as I turn the wheel. I have two other 2nd Gens and neither of them do this. Really starting to bug me that I can't diagnose this.

Any suggestions? I would guess air in the lines. But know no other way of clearing air other than the side to side routine.

Suggestions, my friends..............?
Old 12-19-01, 09:25 PM
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I dont know how to fix your problem but I know a lot of Ford Mustang 5.0s have that same sound. It is quite apparent on my friends mustang, and its been doing it for him for 50k miles.

I would have to say it may be something with the impeller in the pump or possible the bearings in the pump. Could alse be the pinion gear or rack itself.

Go get some of that PS stop leak stuff. Maybe it will help you, it wouldnt hurt.
Old 12-19-01, 11:24 PM
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what power steering fluid did you use?
Old 12-20-01, 06:31 PM
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What power steering fluid do I use

Forgot the brand. Just off the shelf stuff from Kragen Auto Parts. Do you think that could be the problem?
Old 12-20-01, 06:47 PM
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Might just have a pump going out. If so don't get the mazda replacement. You could buy a whole parts car for less. I had the same problem and I ended up getting a new pump (aftermarket) for around 250.00. 87 TII
Old 12-20-01, 07:13 PM
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Man someone on here will prolly give you one. Theres enough people that took the power steering out.
Old 12-20-01, 07:24 PM
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Man someone on here will prolly give you one

LOL, I hear that. Actually, I replaced the Power Steering pump with a new aftermarket one thinking that WAS the problem. But, the groan continues. Maybe my car is haunted now and what I really need is a Catholic Priest to exorcise that demon!
Old 12-20-01, 07:40 PM
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Re: Man someone on here will prolly give you one

Originally posted by HOZZMANRX7
LOL, I hear that. Actually, I replaced the Power Steering pump with a new aftermarket one thinking that WAS the problem. But, the groan continues. Maybe my car is haunted now and what I really need is a Catholic Priest to exorcise that demon!
Lol, how loud is it anyways?
Old 12-20-01, 08:03 PM
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How loud?

Enought to REALLY bug!!!!!!! Mostly notice it when I'm not moving and the radio off. Road noise and/or my sterio drown it out pretty much.
Old 12-21-01, 01:10 PM
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Thats weird, I think I know of the groan of which you speak. Only I have my P/S pump removed. I really only notice it in parking lots, or when turning my wheel when I'm stopped. Sounds like a moaning cow or something. I've heard people say its the front rubber strut mounts rubbing against the chassis. Supposedly if your oil the tops of the rubber mounts it will soften them up and get rid of that sound. I have yet to confirm this though.
Old 12-21-01, 01:44 PM
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I had this problem with my 85. After I fixed a leak, the pump continued to whine like it was low on fluid. I checked the fluid and it was fine. It took a while for all of the air to get out of the lines, but it finally quit after a month or so.
Old 12-21-01, 06:11 PM
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Strut mounts

I don't think thats it, 'cause the moaning get higher pitch with increased RPM. Also, while not moving, if I turn the wheel the pitch changes indicating its affected by the load put on the pump system.

But, new pump, noise still there.

New Lines, thats when the noise started.

Been driving like this for 6 months, so air should have worked itself out by now.

If my hood opens up by itself and spits out something looking like pea soup, I'm definitely finding that catholic priest!!
Old 12-22-01, 12:10 AM
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Two things strike me off the top of my head,

#1 if you jack up the front end, so there is no pressure on the wheels, with the engine running and you carnk the wheel do you get the groan?

#2 I am sure you checked, but make sure you didn't over tighten the belt or mis-align the pump. Both will get worse with RPM, but are not vehicle speed variable.
Old 12-22-01, 12:44 AM
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I know the alignment is right and the belt isn't over tightened. I'll try taking the load off the front wheels tomorrow and report.

Thanks for the suggestions. Keep em coming. It sounding like a moaning cow is a pretty good comparison. LOL
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