92 SC400. 100K miles. I’ve read some of the posts and know others have been through this.
Had the pwr steering seal kit done 8 months ago ($375) (along with the alternator more $) at an independent shop. Last week-- lost all the fluid overnight, loud whining noise from the ps pump.
Took it back to the same guy, he said Flow Control Valve was shot He replaced 3 o-rings, pressure gasket and a “flow control seat” ( $400.00). Then he told me I need a new pump. Picked it up and now it whines, very stiff & hard to steer, car shudders at low speed turns.
He knew nothing about the Letter Stamp on the valve I’ve read so much about (neither does the Dealer). He also didn’t clean either of the screens. I told him about the Steering Rack Solenoid screen and he quoted $300, saying the whole rack had to come off to get to it. So obviously it was time to cut my losses and get the car out of there.
I went to a 2nd shop this afternoon, they’d never heard of the solenoid screen, couldn’t find it on AllData web site and said my pump was shot.
So, brought the car home and just finished taking the solenoid off, screen was black. Cleaned it and put it all back together. Started the car, took off resevoir cap and turned left / right to burp. Bad noises had gone away and turning with one finger! Lowered car to the ground, started it up and howling banshee was back. I haven't flushed yet, so maybe I've just reloaded the gunk into the screen again. Pump was rattling awful. I'm close to just ordering a new pump but, I've a feeling as it was quite when the tires were in the air, pump may be ok. There was only a little howl at full lock at first but got less and less with turning procedure. Now it sound like it's running dry. Fluid is full but, foamy.
Any advise would be appreciated before I order a pump $$$. Thx.
