Chrysler 1997 Stratus Convertible RHD Service Manual page 916

19 - 2 STEERING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
STEERING DIAGNOSIS CHARTS
STEERING NOISE
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 very high frequency
CONDITION
Objectionable Hiss Or Whistle
Rattle Or Clunk
Chirp or squeal (in the area of the
power steering pump). Particularly
noticeable at full wheel travel and
during standstill parking.
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 over the
edges of the valve orifice. There is no relationship
between this noise and the performance of the vehi-
cles steering system. Hiss may be expected when the
steering wheel is at the end of its travel or slowly
turning when the vehicle is at a standstill.
POSSIBLE CAUSES
1. Damaged or mispositioned
steering column coupler to dash
panel seal.
2. Noisy valve in power steering
gear.
1. Steering gear loose on front
suspension crossmember.
2. Front suspension crossmember to
frame bolts or studs loose.
3. Tie rod is loose (outer or inner).
4. Loose lower control arm to front
suspension crossmember bolts.
5. Loose upper control arm/ shock
absorber mounting bracket to body
attaching bolts.
6. Power steering fluid pressure
hose touching the body of the
vehicle.
7. Noise internal to power steering
gear.
8. Damaged front suspension
crossmember.
1. Loose power steering pump drive
belt.
CORRECTION
1. Check for proper seal between
steering column coupler and dash
seal.
2. Replace steering gear assembly.
1. Check steering gear to front
suspension crossmember mounting
bolts. Tighten to specified torque if
found to be loose.
2. Tighten the front suspension
crossmember attaching bolts or
studs to the specified torque.
3. Check tie rod pivot points for
wear. Replace worn/loose parts as
required.
4. Tighten control arm mounting
bolts to the specified torques.
5. Check mounting bracket to body
attaching bolts for looseness. If
required tighten to the specified
torques.
6. Adjust hose to proper position by
loosening, repositioning, and
tightening fitting to specified torque.
Do not bend tubing.
7. Replace steering gear assembly.
8. Replace front suspension
crossmember.
1. Adjust power steering pump drive
belt to specified tension.
JX