1998 Ford Explorer power steering moaning

BHUGG

MECHANIC
1998 FORD EXPLORER
6 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
160,000 MILES

98 Explorer, 4.0 SOHC, Power steering was moaning on some turns. The PS fluid level was good. I installed a new PS pump, reset the fluid level and now it moans more. It also appears to be foaming in the reservoir. All suction lines are secure w/o leaking. The wheel also turns in a pulsing motion. Did I miss something or is the problem in the steering box?

Monday, January 18th, 2010 AT 8:14 PM

2 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,176 POSTS

First, this is a common problem. THe orginal pumps start making noise. Then, people have them replaced with aftermarket pumps that make more noise.

As far as the pulsating, make sure the belt is tight and not slipping. Next, did you bleed the new pump when it was installed?

Let me know.
Joe

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Thursday, January 21st, 2010 AT 10:35 AM

BHUGG

MECHANIC
157 POSTS

As it turns out, the suction or return hose was leaking. That was making the fluid foam. I bought a new hose, bled the system with the front wheels off the floor and it is now working well.

Thanks for the reply.

Bhugg

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Sunday, January 24th, 2010 AT 8:39 PM