Power Steering Noise

[magg]

Replaced a leaking power steering pump & a few days later suddenly have strange noise that appears to be coming from around the rack pinion area. When steering wheel returns to centre from right turn there is a "crack" noise from the rack. No problem when turning the steering wheel to the left. Only requires small movement off centre to cause the noise & only happens with right turn of the steering wheel. Other than noise, power steering functions ok. Rack is reconditioned replacement, 12 months old. Very strange, any suggestions?

[vsl67]

Is it defiantly coming from the rack? or is it the link pins or strut bearings making the noise ? also check all of the rack mounting bolts are tight and the condition of the tie rod ends & ball joints

[magg]

Have checked all the suspension & steering joints. Screw driver stethoscope test on rack says it is the noise source. Also no noise when steering wheel rocked with engine off ie no power assist.

[92 VP SS]

Also check that your K Frame is tight. There are only 4 bolts. And they are often loose. Its a 1 min job once you have the front jacked up. If they are loose it will feel like a new car once tight again and they also make a clunking noise when they are loose. The K Frame is basically the front cross member it holds the engine and suspension to the chassis.

Every commodore owner should check this or have it checked.

[magg]

Think problem is related to new pump. The 20 year, 400,000k original pump output pressure was probably a bit low compared to that of the new one & this has highlighted an issue with the control valve in the "reconditioned" rack. As it only happens when turning the steering under high load eg stationary or moving very slowly, I will delay servicing the rack until I acquire the bits to do it myself. Stuff paying someone else for another reconditioned rack.

[Morton]

Your steering assembly has plastic bushes inside it that locate the rack in the housing, they could be broken and may require replacing. (i.e. just get a second hand rack and be done with it)