LSS V6-3.8L VIN K (1997)
Steering Gear: Testing and Inspection
Power Steering Pump and Gear Diagnosis
"Hissing" Noise In Steering Gear
NOTE:
^
There is some noise in all power steering systems. One of the most common noise is a hissing sound which occurs when the steering wheel is
turned and the vehicle is not moving. This noise will be most evident when turning the wheel while the brakes are applied. Some " hissing"
noise is normal under these conditions.
^
Do not replace the valve unless the "hissing" noise is extremely objectionable. A replacement valve will also have a slight noise and may not
correct the condition. When diagnosing a "hissing" noise complaint, inspect all steering hoses to ensure they are not touching (grounded to)
other pans of the vehicle.
^
Improperly installed intermediate shaft boot.
^
Grounded power steering lines.
^
Improperly sealed supplemental inflatable restraint processing holes in steering column.
Rattle In Rack And Pinion
^
Pressure hose touching other parts of vehicle (grounded).
^
Loose tie rod ends.
^
Loose rack and pinion gear attachments.
^
Rack and pinion gear rack bearing preload below minimum.
^
Tie rods contacting air baffles or underbody components.
Groaning Or Growling Noise In Steering Pump
^
Grounded power steering lines.
^
Scored pressure plate, thrust plate or rotor.
^
Worn cam ring.
^
Low pressure relief reservoir cap.
^
Restricted fluid lines (high back pressure).
^
Air ingestion in return line.
^
Damaged flow control valve.
^
Low fluid level.
^
Loose pump mounting bolts.
Rattle Noise In Steering Pump
^
Damaged pump rotor and/or vanes.
^
Damaged pump bearings.
Swishing Noise In Steering Pump
^
Damaged flow control valve.
Whining Noise In Steering Pump
^
Pump shaft bearing scored.
^
Scored pressure plate or thrust plate.
^
Damaged cam ring, rotor, or vanes.
Poor Steering Wheel Returnability
^
Incorrect front wheel alignment.
^
Loose or binding intermediate shaft coupling.
^
Binding tie rod ends.
^
Damaged upper strut mount bearing.
^
Binding ball joints.
^
Steering wheel rubbing against turn signal housing.
^
Tight or frozen steering column bearings.
^
Excessive rack and pinion gear rack bearing preload.
^
Sticking spool valve.
Momentary Increase In Effort When Turning Wheel Fast To Right Or Left
^
High internal spool valve or steering gear leakage.
^
Sticking or damaged pinion spool valve.
^
Insufficient pump pressure.
^
Low fluid level.
Steering Wheel Surges Or Jerks
^
Insufficient pump pressure.
^
Low fluid level.
