Re: noisy power steering = pump bad?

I used Dexron in my low mileage (at the time) 89 Regal, mainly because I didnt read the owners manual. Soon after that, I had to replace the high pressure hose and the power steering pump.

Dont know if I worsened the problem, or if it were on death's door anyway when I had to add a little fluid. Since then, if it doesnt specifically say ATF, then I use the specked power steering fluid.

If you know the correct spec and the fluid is available, that is the unquestionable best way to go. In my ford systems that spec mercon ???, I have found that 2 oz of Lubegard Red quiets them right down. The whine is usually related to aereation of the fluid resulting in regulator valve chatter. Once the fluid is prevented from aereating, the noise usually goes away. Ford has a special procedure and tool to handle the problem by placing a vacuum on the system to withdraw any air as the system is filled. Doesn't always work or last if there is a pinhole leak somewhere in the system or a porous line somewhere. The best answer I have seen is some fluid or additive that prevents aereation of the fluid. I extreme cases, it has been known to cause overflow of the reservoir onto the exhaust manifold where it ignited. If there is evidence of fluid escaping from the reservoir, the problem should be addressed immediately.

Lugnut