Power Steering Whine

[stgninja]

I have recently been doing quite a bit of work on my 95, 3.1, APV. One problem was a whine coming from the power steering but no loss of assist. I got a new pump and both lines/hoses, and a new idler pulley and serp belt. After installation and bleeding according to the repair manual, the whine is back a couple of weeks later. No loss of assist, no leaks, no change in fluid level, just very annoying. Will try bleeding again today. Any ideas??? Thanks

[stgninja]

Did the bleed procedure. Still whines when the engine reaches operating temp. Subsides when gas is applied then will return while cruising or coasting.

anyone?

[corning_d3]

How did the manual tell you to bleed the system?

[richtazz]

check the condition of the serp belt and tensioner.

[stgninja]

Originally Posted by corning_d3

How did the manual tell you to bleed the system?

Manual says to raise the vehicle, uncap the reservoir, turn key to accessory, have an assistant rotate the wheel from one extreme to the other 20 times while I monitor the fluid level and add when necessary to maintain a constant level for cold. Also watching for fluid to be foamy or not. Then repeat of fluid remains foamy. My fluid has never totally been with out a few bubbles but also never been what I would call foamy. Also checked while engine running and wheels off ground and there are no bubbles or foam when engine is running.

[stgninja]

Originally Posted by richtazz

check the condition of the serp belt and tensioner.

As stated in thread starter, new idler pulley and belt with new P/S pump and lines. This is the third idler and belt...going back in time....Was leaving a parking garage one night, idler pully broke (the casting broke around the bolt to engine) while leaving in post game traffic, the belt shredded, I was a short distance from exit so I got to street and called AAA. Next day bought new idler and belt. Weeks later the whine developed. I took the belt and idler back and got replacements because I do understand some new parts may be bad. Whine persisted. Listened with a stethescope to all parts in the whine region. Was coming from P/S pump. Purchased a new pump, new lines, and took back idler and belt for exchange again. Whine came back gradually getting louder. The whine is less loud today then it was before bleeding two days ago. Before I remove and return the P/S pump as a bad new part I want to be as sure as I can be. Between the lifetime warrranty on some parts and belts, AAA discount, and the guys I deal with, NAPA is cool about the returns and advice. Cost isn't the issue, it's the annoying whine and embarassment at work because it is well know I will tackle repairs myself rather than pay some one or buy a new car with insurance and payments.

BTW, this was a dirt cheap e-bay purchase 3 years ago w/95,000 mi. and I am still happy with my 116,000 mi. 95, APV!!! WOW, I never realized how little I drive.

thanks

[corning_d3]

Think there may be a problem with the steering rack?

[wafrederick]

Begore replacing the rack,Try Lucas.Get the one for power steering.It does work.You can find Lucas at certain auto parts stores.

[stgninja]

I can try Lucas, not sure I want to tackle the rack. But I will read up on that repair. Looks like a very tight space in that zone. Do I need to bleed the system empty before installing lucas or just the reservoir?