Power steering issues

Tiny
TOYPACIFIC
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 170,000 MILES
Hi, I'm back again with another power steering issue. So let me start off by what I have done.

1. Replaced the pump.
2. Checked all lines for leaks and that they are all screwed on properly.
3. Flushed out old fluid.
4. Bled system for about 50 times left to right lock to lock. No more foaming or bubbles.
5. Started the vehicle and did left to right about 5 times then shut it off. Sound still whining. I bleed again about another 30 times keep in mind the wheels are off the ground.
6. The reservoir goes down then overflows as I turn the wheel.
7. Topped off fluid at required level turn on vehicle and still making noise.

I had done everything repeatedly and sound is still there. I check lines again no leaks. I used Dexron 3 ATF fluid which is the recommended for this vehicle.

Is there something else I can check or do. I drop the the tires and steering is not so hard but its turning and winding at the same time almost like jerking while I turn it. As I check the fluid again it drops down so I refill and go in turn the wheel and it drops to normal level without any foam or bubbles. But noise is still there. It's worse with tires on the ground.

It seems maybe I'm doing something wrong or something else has to be done. You guys know best.

New pump by the way, installed properly.

Let me know what you think.
I added an actual video of the vehicle.
Thursday, October 15th, 2020 AT 11:31 PM

6 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,269 POSTS
Hi,

What is the rattling sound when you're not turning the wheel? Also, does it make the same sounds as it did prior to pump replacement? Also, is the replacement pump new or remanufactured?

Let me know.

Joe
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Friday, October 16th, 2020 AT 6:11 PM
Tiny
TOYPACIFIC
  • MEMBER
  • 159 POSTS
New pump, rattling drum the power steering pulley. It went away the first bleed then round two it came back. The same sound as prior.
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Friday, October 16th, 2020 AT 7:26 PM
Tiny
TOYPACIFIC
  • MEMBER
  • 159 POSTS
Rattle is from the power steering pulley.
Sorry first one was autocorrect.
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Friday, October 16th, 2020 AT 7:27 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,269 POSTS
Hi,

Is the pulley tight? It shouldn't be making that noise. Do you see any movement in it?

Joe
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Saturday, October 17th, 2020 AT 10:24 PM
Tiny
TOYPACIFIC
  • MEMBER
  • 159 POSTS
The pulley was tight on installation, but when I take it off again I'm going to shake it a little and see if there is any play. Hopefully I can solve this issue.
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Sunday, October 18th, 2020 AT 12:39 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,269 POSTS
If it became loose, it may have damaged the pump. This wouldn't be a common problem, but anything is possible.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
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+1
Sunday, October 18th, 2020 AT 8:11 PM

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