Power Steering "Groaning"

[dhirocz]

Yes that is how you bleed the system. Wheels off ground, top off, turn lock to lock with the engine off, top off until full. Start engine, repeat. Then down on the ground, repeat. Drive a few miles, top off. Should be good then. Always did it that way, never had an issue. Starting the engine with a dry pump is bad on the seals.

If you reseal the pump, drain and refill the fluid again (to flush it out), raise the steer axle off the ground, and bleed it with fresh fluid and a filter and it still groans, the only other thing I can think of is the gearbox. How many miles, and how bad of a groan are we talking about? Some minor groaning at idle while parked is to be expected as the pump and box are under the most strain under those conditions if you are turning the wheel. Also, you'll get additional noise if you turn to lock and hold it against the stops (BIG no-no!)

I didn't go after vehicle manufacturer recommendations, I followed the box and pump manufacturers instructions. I'm my case, TRW. They also specified for me I use dextron III ATF, which is exactly what I used. All ATF is NOT the same!

Keep in mind that in alot of places, companies use engine oil, gear oil, etc in the power steering as well...if it wasn't always your truck you might have other stuff mixed in there as well.