RPM fluctuates with steering, is this normal?

[knl25]

My idle RPM changes quite a bit when I turn the steering wheel, like in parking maneuver. It also happens occasionally when stopping at red light, but always do so with steering wheel turning. Is this normal on your windstars? I wonder if there's a problem with pulley bearings, or power steering system that puts more load on the engine... My engine load at idle is about 14% and this will go up to 17-18% with steering, accompanying by fluctuating RPM.

My Key On Engine Running test reveals a code P1650 power steering pressure switch out of self test range, but this is only after the test. I don't have a CEL. Not sure if my switch is bad but don't see anyone with this particular switch problem on this board.

It's a 2000 3.8L.

[rodeo02]

Hmm.. I didn't realize Winnies had an idle-up switch on the PS pump? Given the code, I would say that's your concern. Either that or a dirty idle air control valve. Last resort, IAC will try to maintain idle speed when a load is put on the engine at idle.

Joel

[knl25]

Originally Posted by rodeo02

Hmm.. I didn't realize Winnies had an idle-up switch on the PS pump? Given the code, I would say that's your concern. Either that or a dirty idle air control valve. Last resort, IAC will try to maintain idle speed when a load is put on the engine at idle.

Joel

I got the code and was trying to locate the switch but couldn't find it. Do you guys know where this Power steering pressure switch is on the 2000 if it has one? Is it normally at the pump or closer to the steering gears...

The IAC valve is clean and was replaced last year so I didn't think that was the problem.

[wiswind]

AlldataDIY shows a power steering switch......and it's location....on the steering rack for my '96 3.8L
HOWEVER, it does not have one.
I found this out after telling a poster about it, who was having difficulty locating it.
I went out to take a picture of it......and it is not there, never was, and no wire/connector for it.
Did some windstars have one?......I don't know.

Your IAC should adjust the engine speed for a significant change in engine loading.
A common symptom of the IAC not working correctly is engine stalling in parking lot manuvers, when your foot is not on the accellerator and you are turning the steering wheel.

If the problem is bothersome, you might try spraying some SeaFoam "Deep Creep" or even WD-40 into the IAC.
Remove the 2 little bolts, lift it out and spray into the body of it in such a way that the liquid from the spray can drain out.....flushing any dirt with it....while it leaves a oily film to lubricate it.

[MARZBX157]

According to my Ford CD, it states that the power steering pressure switch is located on the pressure hose. You can check around there and see.

[knl25]

Originally Posted by MARZBX157

According to my Ford CD, it states that the power steering pressure switch is located on the pressure hose. You can check around there and see.

It's less cold here so I went under the car to check and found the switch around the rack and pinion area.

Ford sells it for $22 but rockauto.com has for $70, so no brainer here. I hope this will solve my issue.

Also, are there signs of failing steering pump? My pump seems to leak fluid (looks wet around the pump area) although the fluid level is not changed significantly.