[ddarnell]

I have a potential customer who has installed a Cavalier rack and pinion on his 50 Ford. He's using a Ford pump and claims that it makes quite a growl after it warms up. He believes it has been bled twelve ways to sundown
I'm wondering if the operating pressures are different between the pump and rack? Any ideas?
Thanks!
David

[BOBCRMAN@aol.com]

GM uses higher pump operating pressure than FORD.

[ddarnell]

Do you suppose the rack is not receiving an adequate operating pressure? I'm trying envision what kinda of problems that may cause. I would think it would cause an assist lag or jerkyness. Would it also cause a growling?
David

[KMatch]

Overload a pump with a high demand rack or hard steering and you'll get the whine/hiss from the pressure relief valve. Overload a rack with high pressure and it will be too sensitive - no feel in the steering wheel. Too little pressure at the rack and it will be hard to turn but the pump will be happy because it just doesn't know any better. I can't see any combo resulting in a groan unless you're mislabling a whining noise (check valve) as groaning.

[aosborn]

Make sure the return hose to the pump is not restricted. If it is, it will cavitate the pump causing a growling noise (the fluid may be foamy also). If the hose appears ok, but is small, like less than 3/8" diameter, replace it with a larger hose and fittings.

Andy

[ddarnell]

Thanks for the replies and suggestions. I'll have him bring it by the shop and give it a look see.
David