Jeep Grand Cherokee 2002 4.7l V8 116k miles
Some time back the car was overheating and it was determined that it needed a new radiator (I was not consulted). This model has the 4.7l V8 engine, where the fan is driven by the power fluid steering pump. As part of that procedure it seems as if the pressure line from the power steering pump must have been disconnected on the pump as well to replace the radiator. It seems like it was not put on tight again and started leaking. The result is that power steering was lost. It splattered all over as the pulley who drives the pump is right there - big mess. It was noticed too late by my friend and driven empty. Please not that I suspect that's were the leak is, it could also be the power fluid steering tank or its connection to the pump - I am in the process of degreasing to get more clarity. The steering pump now makes an awful grinding noise. I drove it home by stopping every 5 miles and topping off the power steering. The pump besides the noise seems to function however when enough fluid is present. The pump is expensive (dealer quoted with tank $500+ just the material).
Few questions: I believe that the connection on top of the pump is the issue. The line feels loose. Is there a small O-ring in that connection that may not have been put back in when it was taken apart? The connection on top of the pump is really difficult to get to. Ideally, if the pump pulley could be removed from the pump while the pump is in the vehicle, I could get to the connection. However, in order to do create enough working space to put a pulley puller on, I would need to remove the radiator again. The air intake housing and the upper radiator hose are all in the way to get to that connection as well. If I already have to remove the radiator, I will most likely not take a chance to just try tightening the connection but replace the whole pump. The repair manual does not state what all needs to be removed to get to the pump, so my question here is for any procedural assistance in what has to be taken apart to get to that connection. I recall the dealer that I asked for a quote also telling me I needed a special tool for that connection. Any thoughts on that one?
Any advise is greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance. Axel