Obnoxious Power Steering

[rangerpilot]

My power steering pump has been whining for a while, even after changing the fluid. So, I decided to try to replace the pump...

This didn't help even the slightest! I replaced the pump and flushed the system. It is still just as loud as ever.

I turned the wheel many times and did not see any bubble after the first couple turns so it can't be air in the system.

I have seen many a debate on fluid types. I see they don't make the recommended MERCON (only the supposed equivalent MERCON V).

I used the MERCON V and wonder if there is some other fluid with a little more viscosity that someone has experience using that would quiet the system down.

What's even worse is the fact that there is a disclaimer on the refurb pump that states ... these pumps are known to whine and may take up to 500 miles to break in. I don't buy it...it has to be a fluid problem.

Could there be a blockage in the line? Anything else that could cause this problem?

Please help!

 

[adsm08]

Those pumps are known to whine and I have seen them take 1000 miles to break in. Buy it. About the only other thing I know to try is use type F, not Mercon or other later fluids.

You think a whiny pump is bad, buy something with full blown electric steering and have that crap out on you just once. You will miss your whining pump then.

 

[bobbywalter]

swap in a windsor e series pump.

 

[4x4junkie]

I have seen many a debate on fluid types. I see they don't make the recommended MERCON (only the supposed equivalent MERCON V).

They still make Mercon... (everyone except Motorcraft, anyway) It's now called "Dex/Merc" because of Ford's game with licensing of the "Mercon" name.

Type-F or Dex/Merc both should be fine.

And yes, Ford PS pumps are not exactly silent, however it shouldn't be so loud that it's the first obvious sound to someone who's standing some feet away from the vehicle with the engine idling (no load on the system).