Power Steering Pump Problems

[JCroadrunner]

I just replaced the power steering pump on my 70 RR 383 Automatic and I have no power assist. I installed it, filled it with fluid, jacked the front wheels off the ground, gave it 4 for 5 short bursts with the starter. It didn't seem to take any fluid so I put the coil wire back on and started it and turned the wheel lock to lock several times. Still no assist. It still didn't take any fluid but the fluid was milky looking. I blew out the hoses in case of a blockage. Ive let it set overnight. Not sure what to do now. Anybody got any ideas? Thanks!

 

[dieseldazzle]

Is it a keyed Saginaw and if so the key is installed and the pulley isn't just spinning on the shaft correct?

 

[JCroadrunner]

Its a keyed Saginaw. The key is in place so it shouldn't be spinning on the shaft but I will double check that today. I'm wondering if there is a blockage inside the gear box. The pump install booklet says milky/foamy fluid is a sign of blockage. Pulling the box would be a JOB!

Thanks diesel dazzle!

 

[dieseldazzle]

The valve on top of the box could have taken a dump as well but I've never seen that happen

 

[RJRENTON]

JC,
First, is it a Saginaw pump or a Federal pump. Who rebuilt it? The pumping components are rotation sensitive...if, in a Saginaw pump, the vanes and vane ring are installed backwards, it won't pump or even pick up the prime, even though its submerged in oil. In a Saginaw pump the flow control valve or even the high pressure relief valve may be stuck open.....resulting in no pressure or assist.
It is my opinion to use only hydraulic oil, NOT AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID, a good grade of hydraulic oil is ISOVIS 32 oil as it contains the anti wear and anti foam components.
The same thoughts are echoed in the Federal pump, slthough the pumping components are a csm snd roller design...if the pumping components are installed backwards, it will not pump.
Bob Renton

 

[JCroadrunner]

Hi RJ,

Its a Saginaw that I got from Advance Auto. I believe it's a Cardone pump. I used power steering fluid that I got from Advance also.

 

[Pops1967GTX]

Did you bleed system well....Then clean valve on top gear box with carb cleaner & properly sit it back on top ...Then loosen the bolts on the valve where the lines connect and move the valve to the right. retighten the bolts and try it.you will probably will have to play with it..

 

[JCroadrunner]

Hi Pops,

I put new hi pressure and return line hoses on it. I blew them out to make sure no blockage. The box is new also. I will try moving the valve like you suggested.

Thanks!

 

[Yatzee]

I just replaced the power steering pump on my 70 RR 383 Automatic and I have no power assist. I installed it, filled it with fluid, jacked the front wheels off the ground, gave it 4 for 5 short bursts with the starter. It didn't seem to take any fluid so I put the coil wire back on and started it and turned the wheel lock to lock several times. Still no assist. It still didn't take any fluid but the fluid was milky looking. I blew out the hoses in case of a blockage. Ive let it set overnight. Not sure what to do now. Anybody got any ideas? Thanks!

Perhaps the pressure relief valve on the pump is stuck or there is no spring behind the check ball. You can undo the fitting on the pump and check for yourself but honestly I'd return it. If the symptoms with steering are the same as before you changed the pump, there's an issue with your steering gear.

 

[RJRENTON]

JC,
If you have exhausted all the usual checks, then return it to Advance Auto. Cardone, while usually a reliable rebuilder, hss been known to turn out a foul ball once in awhile. Do you still have your original pump? You could have sent it to Steering and Gear to have it rebuilt and they flow check it to make sure it performs like new. Sure, it's a little more expensive but, at this point, is it really a cost issue?
Bob Renton

 

[JCroadrunner]

RJ, this is the 2nd pump from Advance, same issue. I don't have my original pump, (core exchange).

I think I will just go to Steer and Gear and get one.

 

[RJRENTON]

JC,
Steer and Gear is a great choice....reliable and they stand behind their work. IF you decide there is a problem with your steering box, they can fix yours and for a few $$, modify it to supply a firm feel, eliminating the "dead" feel of OEM Chrysler....well worth the cost...call them....they can help...
Bob Renton

 

[JCroadrunner]

Well I just went out to the garage and checked the fluid and it isn't milky after setting overnight. I topped it off and jacked the wheels off the ground agin, started it and turned the wheel center to center several times. Checked the fluid, was low, topped it off and turned some more. Fluid stayed clear and full. I dropped it down and went for a drive. Seems to be OK but its a little tight. Just doesn't feel like I thought it would with new pump, gear and all. Guess Ill drive it some and see what it does.

Thanks for everybodies help!