Pontiac FIREBIRD 1972 Service Manual page 1158

STEERING 9-5
TROUBLE DIAGNOSIS (Continued)
POWER STEERING SYSTEM HAS A GROAN OR GROWLING NOISE
Follow steps below. If first step is O.K., proceed down list until problem
is corrected.
CAUSE
a. Low oil level.
b. Excessive back pressure caused by
restriction in hoses or steering gear.
c. Scored pressure plate, thrust plate
or rotor inside pump.
d. Extreme wear of cam ring inside pump.
CORRECTION
a. Fill reservoir (make sure no air is in system
since it contributes to noise).
b. Locate restriction and correct. Replace
parts if necessary.
c. Replace with new part.
d. Replace parts.
POWER STEERING PUMP H A S W H I N E NOISE
Follow steps below. If first step is O.K., proceed down list until problem
is corrected.
CAUSE
a. Pump shaft bearing scored or rough.
CORRECTION
a. Replace shaft bearing and damaged parts as needed.
POWER STEERING P U M P LEAKING OIL
NOTE: Wipe parts thoroughly and make sure source o f leakage is deter-
mined (Fig. 9-
1).
Follow steps below. If first step is O.K., proceed down list until problem
is corrected.
CAUSE
a. Reservoir oil level too high.
b. Damaged reservoir cap (loose).
c. Loose hose connections or hose cracked.
d. Pressure union or cover screws loose
or seals leaking.
e. Reservoir "0" ring leaking.
f. Shaft seal leaking.
CORRECTION
a. Remove excess oil from reservoir.
b. Replace cap.
c. Tighten connection or replace hose as
necessary.
d. Tighten loose fitting or replace seals if
necessary.
e. Replace seal also examine reservoir housing
for damage.
f. Replace seal and examine shaft. If shaft is
scored, replace.
POWER STEERING GEAR LEAKING OIL EXTERNALLY
NOTE: Wipe parts thoroughly and make siire source of leakage is deter-
mined (Fig. 9-2).