Still can't figure out: groan through steering column

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Finally solved the vibration in the left front. On top of having a major bead leak, the wheel relieved itself of a weight or two. Re-mounted and balanced, now all good.

Still having issues with the steering column. I hit every joint in the column with a little wheel bearing grease, but when I turn the column at low speeds, I'm still hearing groaning. Sounds like pulling a door open on rusty hinges. I can feel resistance momentarily increase then return to normal.

Searching all over hasn't turned up much but it looks like I'm at one of three possibilities: bad rack bushings, bad lower steering shaft, bad R&P. Seems like something needs lubrication but isn't getting it. Fluid level is correct. Ideas?
 

MustangChris

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im leaning towards R&P.

the steering shaft is all one piece, FYI.

does it do it while the car is off? that may help in hunting it down if you have someone who can turn the wheel for you.
 

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put your hand on the spindle, R&P, steering shaft (interior, preferably, so you dont smash your hand against the hot headers.) lol.
 

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Also the seals in the pump can cause that sound too. How old is the PS pump ? What color is the fluid? When was the fluid changed last?
 
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PS pump original
Don't know when changed last. I know... But I know the hydroboost runs off it and I'm afraid of messing it up.
So what would the procedure be to change fluid?


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Leaking a little brake fluid but that's not a Hydroboost issue. The pedal was always a little soft but so was my '97.


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Leaking a little brake fluid but that's not a Hydroboost issue. The pedal was always a little soft but so was my '97.


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Ok not to be an ass but you need to read that. The whole system relies on pressure of the fluid proper functioning valves and all sorts of things and it all works in sync. You need to fix that leaking issue before you go any further. The pedal is not supposed to be soft especially on a. Hydroboost setup. It's supposed to be nice and firm.
 
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Hmm, guess I just thought it was normal, like I said it was always like that from day 1. Last winter it needed both front calipers replaced, I did them, so I wonder if it's a banjo bolt backing out. All of the lines underneath the car are fine. The pedal goes down fairly easily but it will slow down in a hurry when you need it to.


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Ok not to be an ass but you need to read that. The whole system relies on pressure of the fluid proper functioning valves and all sorts of things and it all works in sync. You need to fix that leaking issue before you go any further. The pedal is not supposed to be soft especially on a. Hydroboost setup. It's supposed to be nice and firm.

Had to stop a little short today, once the pedal is about halfway down the brake light trips. This car is fun...


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Had to stop a little short today, once the pedal is about halfway down the brake light trips. This car is fun...


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yeah trace that leak. Then go out and test it on a closed road and see if you can duplicate it. If you can still then that's when the fun will start.
 
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Should be able to check it Sunday, car will be parked tomorrow. Will reply with what I find.


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Found the brake leak. Looked like the banjo bolt on the RF caliper backed out about 1/4 turn. Snugged the **** out of it. Hope it's not the brass washer under the head of the bolt. For all of the pressure the system is under, this is enough to cause a problem imo.

All soft hoses from car to caliper passed inspection.

Will continue to monitor.
[MENTION=8860]Win[/MENTION]


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That's good. Hopefully all that will level out you might have to bleed it.

I just have to wonder why, if I did the job 9 months ago, I suddenly had an issue?

At least I found it. Now back to the steering groan, will start by "flushing" the system via turkey baster method.


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MustangChris

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turkey baster??

just undo the line on the rack and let gravity do its thang.


fill with royal purple ATF afterwards ;)
 

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