Power Steering Question

[HOrnbrod]

I swapped out my older 1991 power steering pump & brackets for the newer 1997 pump, bracket, and idler pulley. This also required a different seprentine belt. The steering now seems much tighter, more responsive, and better all around. I did keep the same steering box. Can just swapping out the power steering pump cause an improvement like this? I've never had a pump go bad (except for the obvious leaker), so what are the symptoms when a power steering pump goes belly-up?

[jtdesigns]

I have to swap the PS pump in my XJ too, Don. I think its bad just cause it whines even after bleeding it, which I guess I could try to bleed it again. The last I check the fluid it was captivating pretty bad and foaming up.

[HOrnbrod]

Never had one foam up like that JT. I replaced my pump only because I liked the mounting points better w. the 2000 intake, and it makes it much easier to adjust the belt tension. I just never had a new pump (used actually) improve the steering so much. Maybe the 1997+ pumps just work better? :hmm:

[johnnyc]

I just replaced the PS pump on the MJ twice last week. The original pump was doing a lot of moaning and groaning. The first replacement pump was bad right out of the box. It wasn't moving any fluid and steering was very difficult. Replaced it again and all is good.

 

I also replaced the steering shaft, as it had a lot of play in it.

[jtdesigns]

Never had one foam up like that JT. I replaced my pump only because I liked the mounting points better w. the 2000 intake, and it makes it much easier to adjust the belt tension. I just never had a new pump (used actually) improve the steering so much. Maybe the 1997+ pumps just work better? :hmm:

I guess the new pump could have a higher line pressure.. :dunno: