fj60 turning PS pump noise

[mike_az]

Brand new to this list and this is the first time I post. I have done a quick search about the front end rebuild, but what I looking for is a groaning noise from the PS pump during turning slow speeds. I have no PS leaks and want to know if:
1) the pump can just become weak for no reason, or
2) the front end kingpin bearings might be shot and it doesn't turn easy-causing the pump to work vey hard

any ideas ?, thanks-

This is the most complete site for repairs I've seen. thanks for any input

 

[Heffenoche]

If your ps pump is groaning check your ps fluid level. If it is low and you have air in the lines it will cause it to groan. If your ps pump is leaking get it fixed pretty quick because it will leak onto your airpump and fry it pretty quickly. If it is groaning and the ps fluid level is fine then it may be time to rebuild or replace the ps pump. I prefer rebuilding yourself with OEM parts because I tried two rebuilds from the parts store and they leaked. If you have a FSM the rebuild is pretty easy. I think it's easier then getting to pump off the engine.

 

[swank60]

I'll second not getting a rebuild from an auto parts store - PO did that on mine and it leaked everywhere - I'm going to get to replace the DS motor mount because of it before too long. Yeah for me. If you want to go the easy/more expensive route, you can get a good used one from cruiserparts.net - I got mine from there.

As far as yours groaning, you might try pumping out all of the old fluid and replacing it (Dextron II or III ATF) If the fluid is in bad shape (dirty) it could effect performance. May not fix it, but if it does, you've saved yourself a rebuild or replacement cost.

 

[humper99]

When does it groan? Mine has a slight groan for the first few turns after taking off on a chilly morning. After that it's whisper quiet. I believe this could be caused by cold thick fluid that once warmed and gets pumping is fine.

 

[hj60]

humper99-
He lives in Tempe, AZ.
It gets cold here in the mornings. Like 85°F. BRRRR.

 

[Rollin'in'Zona]

Definitly flush and BLEED the thing before rebuilding. The bleeding takes much longer than you'd think, but it's an easy process.

After installing a new PS pump in a 60 I had the same problem as before - the groaning. I was rather upset . So I bled it some more, and it got better. Then I bled it some more and it got better still. Then I bled it again it it was fine

 

[lowtideride]

My PS pump started groaning about a week ago after I came off the trail. You can even get it grown with the cruiser off and just rocking the wheel back and forth a lil. But it only growns for a second while turning. im going to drain it and put some new fluid in it.

and why should i put dextron II or III in? thicker?? i was gonna put this crap in from AA that said stops leaks and groans??

thanks agian,
-Al

i think my PS is sick of the new tires. guess i should get bigger ones. im sure that will make it happy

 

[fergus]

My pump groaned(GM though) with 36"s and SOA.Until I went hydro-assist(West Texas Off Road rebuild and kit).I wonder if the stock p/s gear box isn't part of the issue with bigger tires?Especially on the rocks.......
Now it works awesome,better on the road and off with 38.5x14.5's.

HTH

 

[mike_az]

thanks everyone for the input, I'll try flushing the system out before I spend any money

 

[lowtideride]

so does anyone know why the noise just starts out of the blue like that>?

 

[swank60]

and why should i put dextron II or III in? thicker?? i was gonna put this crap in from AA that said stops leaks and groans??

thanks agian,
-Al

i think my PS is sick of the new tires. guess i should get bigger ones. im sure that will make it happy

The system doesn't take power steering fluid, it takes auto tranny fluid. If you put in PS fluid, it's thin and starts seeping our of everything. Ask me how I know.

and your tire size may be putting that extra strain on an old ass pump and just can't take it. Better get you a nice set of 295 street tires that are no more than 7" wide

 

[lowtideride]

haha ill make sure to do that...they would look sweet with a SOA and i thought it looked funny with 31s