jetback73nova

I noticed that there is a plug on my power steering pump but the engine harness does not have a connector for it. I am not too concerned about it as it is probably for a "low fluid light" in the dash as the PCM does not need this info, but I just wanted a confirmation.

thenova70ss

iTrader: (2)

Yep thats what its for.

pdsq98gt

What vehicle is the pump off of? Some suv's in the 90's had variable effort steering and that sopenoid controlled the pump's output. It is at the bottom rear of the pump near the high pressure outlet.

89 formula350

iTrader: (8)

or idle switch. it signaled the demand for torque and would raise the idle speed slightly when turning the wheel

jetback73nova

the engine is out of an 02 silverado and I assume the PS pump is stock. although the connector is on a plastic cylinder that is over the high pressure output. Is it possible that my pump needs some input signal to function?

garys 68

iTrader: (1)

It's a pressure bypass solenoid that decreases the amount of assist at hiway speeds. Doogle "variable effort power steering". It's connected to the BCM. You can leave it disconnected.

jetback73nova

thanks for the relies, that is an interesting piece of functionality, I wonder what type of signal it takes and what it's rang is as far as reducing the pressure. not going to worry about that right now though as its not even going to be connected to anything for a wile.

pdsq98gt

If I remember correctly it uses vehicle speed and a steering wheel speed/position sensor to determine how much assist to provide. It is prone to failure and the most common symptom is that the steering darts sharply while on swooping exit ramps. I have a 99 suburban with this system and it used to intermittently do this. I would just leave it alone and unplugged

thenova70ss

iTrader: (2)

Yep i have worked on some trucks that had this and its JUNK i would never try an use it are hook it up.