Dodge RAM TRUCK 1500 1995 Service Manual page 1248

BR
STEERING 1 9 - 5
POWER STEERING SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS
m^mmmG N O I S E S - C o n t i n u e d
There is some noise in all power steering systems. One of the most common is a hissing sound evident at
standstill parking. Hiss is a high frequency noise similar to that experienced while slowly closing a water tap. The
noise is present in every valve and results from high velocity fluid passing valve orifice edges. There is no
relationship between this noise and performance of the steering. Hiss may be expected when steering wheel is at
end of travel or when slowly turning at standstill.
CONDITION
POSSIBLE CAUSES
CORRECTION
Pump growl results from the development of high pressure fluid flow. Normally this noise should not be high enough
to be objectionable. Abnormal situations, such as a low oil level causing aeration or hoses touching the vehicle
body, can create a noise level that could bring complaints.
WHINE OR GROWL
(PUMP-NOISE)
1 Low fluid level.
2. Hose touching vehicle body
or frame.
3. Extreme wear of pump internal
parts.
1. Fill to proper level and perform leakage
diagnosis. (Recheck after system is free
of aeration.)
2. Reposition hose. Replace hose if tube
ends are bent.
3. Replace pump and flush system.
SUCKING AIR SOUND 1. Loose return line clamp.
2. Missing O-ring on hose
connection.
3. Low fluid level.
4. Air leak between reservoir and
pump.
1. Tighten or replace clamp.
2. Inspect connection and replace O-ring
as required.
3. Fill to proper level and perform leakage
diagnosis.
4. Inspect and replace reservoir as
required.
SQUEAK OR RUB
SOUND
1. Sound from steering column.
2. Sound internal to steering gear. .
1. Check for squeak in steering column.
Inspect for contact between shroud
intermediate shaft, column, and wheel.
(Realign if necessary.)
(a) Check for lack of grease on steering
column, dash to lower coupling seal.
2. Replace gear.
SCRUBBING/KNOCKING 1. Incorrect tire size.
2. Check clearance between tires
and other vehicle components,
through full travel.
3. Check for interference between
steering gear and other
components.
4. Incorrect gear supplied.
1. Verify tire size is the same as originally
supplied.
2. Correct as necessary.
3. Correct as necessary.
4. Replace gear.
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