My rod is a '45 Ford 1/2 ton truck. Power by a small block RamJet engine. I've installed a Vintage Air Frontrunner serpentine belt system using a GM type II power steering. I've equipped the truck with a Mustang II type front steering and suspension. Ever since I started this truck the power steering whines badly as I turn the wheel rolling or not. I also don't feel as though it's getting as much assist to the steering as I think it should have. There is no air in the system, nor any leaks. I recall a valve modification done to the earlier types of GM pumps internal pressure vavle but am not sure it that is what needs to be done to this type II pump.
I'm hoping someone might have a suggestion for me to look into.
It sounds like internal pieces may be worn excessively or damaged due to running dry.
inside the pump there is what is called the ring, rotor and vanes. There are also two plates that they are sandwiched between. Usually what happens is that someone ran the pump out of fluid and damaged (galled the surfaces of the ring or the plates. If it chatters when you turn the wheel the rotor is broken. I have only seen that a couple of times but it does happen.
They aren't that hard to rebuild and parts are usually available.
The parts would be a ring, rotor and vane kit, the two plates and a seal kit.
One note, if anyone used a hammer to remove or replace the original pulley they may have damaged the rotor at that time.
[QUOTE='45 Ford]...There is no air in the system... [/QUOTE]
How does one determine if there is air in the system? I recently had to replace the hose from the pump to the box. Is there some sort of air bleeding proceedure that should have been done?
How does one determine if there is air in the system? I recently had to replace the hose from the pump to the box. Is there some sort of air bleeding proceedure that should have been done?
yes turn the steering lock to lock and bumping the wheel with the steering wheel against the lock a couple of times with the engine running that will clean the air up, you may have to do that more the once. if the noise came after the repair bets are on air in the system
One thing, make sure that you use quality "power steering fluid" and not atf. I managed to quiet down a few units by draining the atf and putting in GM power steering fluid. I can't tell you what the difference is but there is a definite difference in the fluids. My personal preference runs towards the GM power steering fluid from the GM dealers parts dept.
No, and the air will usually work itself out fairly quick. A few lock to locks will usually get rid of 90% of it.
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