Noisy Power Steering Pump

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Mar 10, 2012 | 06:53 PM

KB1LQ4

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Noisy Power Steering Pump

Problem: Power steering pump has a loud whine about 1 minute after startup; fluid is at proper level and very frothy

Vehicle: 1947 International KB-1 Pickup
Engine: 2006 LQ4 with stock truck power steering pump.
Steering rack: Late model Mustang (came with Fatman IFS kit; the tech guy at Fatman stated that pressure reducing valve not required on this rack)

The powertrain and all related components came from a low-mileage truck that was T-boned. In general, the components seem to be in excellent condition.

I just drove my project down our street for the first time today. Everything great except for the power steering noise that started about a minute after startup. Steering operation was otherwise fine, with no twitchy symptoms and it turned with very little effort.

Is anyone using the LQ4 pump and Mustang rack, and if so, any special considerations for new installations. I don't want to swap the pump out if there is something else out of order.

Mar 11, 2012 | 07:34 AM

Old Geezer

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From: GA, USA

Does the pump have 2 return ports? [Made for the hydaboost brakes]
If so, you should use the lower return. Use of the upper can/will cause the noise....Ask me how I know this!

Mar 11, 2012 | 08:16 AM

garys 68

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From: Camdenton, MO

Same problem as Geezer. Switched to the bottom, all is well.

Mar 11, 2012 | 08:20 AM

KB1LQ4

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Thanks for the quick responses, guys. I do have it plumbed to the top return port. I will make the switch in the next day or so (provided I have a long enough braided line) and report back.

Mar 11, 2012 | 11:14 AM

richard david

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From: Texas

I have mine on the bottom one and it still make noise after driving a few miles.been like that for a year I just learned to deal with it

Mar 11, 2012 | 02:58 PM

gMAG

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From: CT

If moving the port doesn't work, try lifting the front wheels off the ground.
Start the engine, then turn the wheels gently, lock to lock, about 10 times.
Sometimes air gets trapped in the system, and this will move the air out.

Mar 11, 2012 | 03:21 PM

Old Geezer

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From: GA, USA

The tech at Borgeson said they recommend using a 50/50 mix of Lucas p/s additive and regular p/s fluid. That, and I added 4 of the shims to reduce psi on my 55 ww/ the 500 gear box. All's quiet.