HELP! I think my power steering about to die

[Jon]

Lately I've noticed that my power steering is burping and screeching when I try to turn the wheel without forward or reverse movement. Same exact sound you get when you lock the wheel to one side. It drives fine at normal speed. The fluid level is good but it smells like it may be burnt up. No leaks. Would this be a rack or pump issue? Where does the screeching noise come from?

 

[cfranck1]

Hope does the belt look??
Sounds like the belt might need tightening.

 

[Jon]

I'll look in a bit but I don't think that's it but hope your right. I always look over the easy things, so used to bad luck.

 

[quicksilvr]

Change the fluid completely, re-fill with a good ATF. That will extend the pump life if it's just starting to go bad. They do go bad....mine's on it's way out as well. Bad thing is a Toyota replacement is $300. And parts store pumps suck.

3rd Gen PS System Flush Writeup (long post) - YotaTech Forums


I'd recommend this ^ way as well. I did mine with the truck running, and the fluid does come out REALLY fast. Plus, the fan blows it everywhere. Ick.

 

[Jon]

Well it's not the belt. I'll try the flush but what is starting to fail? the pump?

 

[broncosi]

I did mine with the truck running, and the fluid does come out REALLY fast. Plus, the fan blows it everywhere. Ick.

HAHAHA Oh man! I had to wash my car after I did it. EVERYTHING was covered in fluid EVERYWHERE!!! Thought I was the only one.