My '95 Yj is hard to steer in rocks in places where I see others steering with one hand. The steering also whines loudly when being forced against an obstacle or against the steering stops. This happens whether it is hot or cold. The system does not have any leaks. What would be the best way to proceed? Change the pump?
Thanks
Whining is usually an indication of low fluid. Hows the level and age of your PS fluid?
There is a possibility the pump is wearing out. They make a PS pressure gauge to check it. Not sure if Autozone or similar rental places carry it though. If you have a local hydraulic repair shop they might be able to help you diagnose it.
Could be the relief valve, that's what you here when the wheels are against the stops.
If you do decide to change the pump remember to change the O rings that go to the reservoir at the same time. Otherwise you might be back in there fixing a leak that dribbles down the back of the pump
The level is normal and the fluid is fairly new because the steering box was rebuilt a few months ago. Trying to think this through...given that the relief valve is being activated, then either the steering is hard due to normal pressure but something wrong in the steering box OR the steering is hard due to a relief valve that is activating at too low a pressure. What would be most likely?
Thanks
The relief valve should not normally open unless you are pushing the wheels against the stops. Just turning the wheels on dry pavement should not cause it to bypass. The only way to know for sure is a pressure test. The book says that testing against stops should not be done for an excessive time to avoid wear on the pump and relief valve. It also reads like there is a way to just replace the relief valve but I don't have the detailed book on the pump, just a service guide.
Wouldn't think it was the box, but it could be. I've never rebuilt one and actually the ZJ is in need of a new one as I type.
Mustangs have a "power steering control valve" that adjusts the amount of boost. I think that's an orifice washer in the supply line for the Jeeps. Foggy memory is that that has to be removed when you put in a PS pump powered winch.
The downside to throwing a new pump at it is you would have a spare. (unless there is a core charge for the pump)
Not the best site but it has some info.
Hmm.. new OEM pump is $260 from
I think I'll try getting it pressure tested and go from there. Thanks again.
you're welcome.
Happy Jeepin
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