|
|
 |
Power steering was first used on a vehicle way back in the 1920s. While
systems have grown more refined, the operating principle remains largely
unchanged. The power steering system brings together the strength and power of
hydraulic pressure with the mechanical miracle of steering linkages. The power
steering pump pressurizes the power steering hydraulic system. The power
steering fluid runs through hoses and by way of valves, plungers, or pistons
moves the mechanics of the steering back and forth as you turn the wheel. When
the pump stops pumping, the pressure drops and the power steering system loses
its hydraulic power. Worse yet is that small bits of the rapidly
disintegrating pump may lodge themselves in the dark reaches of the system and
cause even more potentially expensive problems.
| |  |
| Pressure Required
While there are more than a few different types of power steering systems,
they all require the hydraulic pressure of the power steering fluid to give
you the seemingly superhuman strength to effortlessly turn the wheels with one
finger. Be it rack-and-pinion, recalculating ball, or some fancier, more
space-aged setup, the power steering system will fail if the pump cannot
generate the pressure required to push the steering parts of the suspension
back and forth.
Since the power steering fluid is constantly getting mashed around by pump and
piston alike, it requires regular attention. Checking the fluid level and
changing and flushing at intervals recommended by the manufacturer will bring
long life to the hoses, pistons, valves, seals, and power steering pump
itself. Sight and smell are your allies when it comes to determining the
condition of power steering fluid. The fluid should be clear, not cloudy, and
should not smell burnt or toasted. Hearing is the other sense that comes into
play when it comes to power steering pumps and wear. A power steering pump on
its way out will growl and groan like a grumpy cat as you turn the steering
wheel back and forth.
Moan and Groan
This growling will get worse as the pump wears. These low groaning noises are
particularly noticeable when the system is under heavy load, such as parallel
parking. While a small amount of noise at the very end of the steering travel
is normal, continual complaining is not. Moderate howling could merely be a
sign of low power steering fluid level. When checking and topping off the
power steering fluid, be sure to consult the vehicle owner's or service
manual. Pouring in the wrong fluid or overfilling the system can cause
expensive damage. If the fluid is low, check the hoses, fittings, clamps, and
the like for leaks. A large square of cardboard placed under the vehicle
overnight can help locate leak sources.
|
|
